This Healthy Apple Zucchini Bread is a tasty treat packed with yummy apples and simple zucchini. It’s moist, sweet, and perfect for breakfast or as a snack!
I love how easy it is to whip up. You just mix, bake, and enjoy. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some veggies in your day—who knew zucchini could be so good? 🍏🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and nutrients. If you need a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend, but keep in mind it might change the texture.
Applesauce: Instead of applesauce, you could use mashed bananas for a fruity twist. Both keep the bread moist and add natural sweetness.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I love using pure maple syrup for its rich flavor. If you’re avoiding added sugars, a ripe mashed banana can work too, although it will affect the sweetness.
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds a nice touch of flavor, but if you prefer, stick with olive oil for a lighter taste. Both work well for moisture.
Zucchini: Make sure to squeeze out extra moisture before adding it to the batter—this helps keep the bread from getting soggy!
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini Bread Stays Moist but Not Soggy?
To achieve the perfect moisture level in your apple zucchini bread, the main trick is in handling the zucchini. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. It’s quick!
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and twist it to remove excess moisture.
- Keep an eye on your baking time—check for doneness a few minutes early. Your bread should spring back when lightly pressed.
Following these steps will prevent your bread from being too moist while ensuring it’s deliciously tender!
How to Make Healthy Apple Zucchini Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mixed Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and grated or finely chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation, and around 50-60 minutes to bake. Plus, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your delicious bread in about 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and warm when your batter is ready. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of all the dry ingredients—every bite will be perfectly spiced!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy. Then add the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil (or melted coconut oil), and vanilla extract. Mix it all until everything is combined well. You want a nice, smooth mixture!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or the bread might turn out tough!
5. Add the Good Stuff:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini, grated apple, and nuts if you’re using them. These ingredients add fantastic texture and flavor to your bread!
6. Pour into the Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your healthy, moist, and flavorful apple zucchini bread as a delightful snack or breakfast treat! Share it with your family and friends, and relish the compliments!
Can I Use Other Types of Flour?
Absolutely! You can use all-purpose flour alone for a lighter texture. For gluten-free options, try a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute to get similar results!
Can I Substitute the Eggs?
Yes! To replace each egg, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). This works great for vegan options!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To keep your apple zucchini bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Different Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or other favorite nuts and seeds. Just make sure they complement the flavors and balance the moisture in the recipe!
