Smitten Kitchen Zucchini Bread: Delicious and Easy Recipe for Perfectly Moist Zucchini Bread

Smitten Kitchen's zucchini bread has become a beloved staple for home bakers seeking a moist, flavorful, and fail-proof quick bread. The original Smitten Kitchen zucchini bread recipe features just the right balance of sweetness and spice, resulting in a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. Typically, the recipe includes fresh grated zucchini (no need to squeeze the excess liquid), all-purpose flour, brown and white sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a neutral oil to create that signature tender crumb. Some variations add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a handful of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

For best results, use small to medium zucchinis—they’re less watery and have a more delicate skin. Mix your wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. This ensures even distribution of moisture and prevents overmixing, which could make the bread dense. Bake the batter in a well-greased loaf pan until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, typically 50–60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning out onto a rack to finish cooling.

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Use a box grater for zucchini and add it directly to the batter for maximum moisture. For added flavor complexity, try a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg, or fold in toasted walnuts for crunch. Storing your finished zucchini bread tightly wrapped at room temperature keeps it fresh for several days, but you can also freeze slices for quick treats later on.

FAQ

Q: Do I need to peel zucchini for Smitten Kitchen zucchini bread?

A: No, the peel is tender and adds color—just wash and grate your zucchini.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

A: Yes, but decreasing sugar will affect sweetness and texture. Experiment gradually to find your preferred balance.

Q: Does the bread taste like zucchini?

A: The flavor is subtle—zucchini adds moisture and a slight earthiness but isn’t overpowering.

Q: How should I store zucchini bread?

A: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Q: Is Smitten Kitchen's zucchini bread suitable for add-ins?

A: Absolutely! Nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can all be folded into the batter for variety.