If ever a loaf could sum up the joys of summer baking, it has to be Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread. This cozy classic transforms humble garden zucchini into a tender, cinnamon-scented treat with a golden crust and moist crumb. It’s the kind of recipe your grandma might have lovingly passed down, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a sidekick for your afternoon coffee break. Whether you serve it plain or jazz it up with nuts, this bread’s warm flavor and hearty texture will have friends and family asking for seconds.

Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread such a crowd-pleaser is its simplicity. Each ingredient has a role to play, lending sweetness, richness, structure, or just the right touch of spice to every slice.

Zucchini: Adds incredible moisture and a boost of nutrition—just be sure to squeeze out any excess water for the perfect texture.
Granulated Sugar: Provides traditional sweetness and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
Brown Sugar: Brings extra depth with notes of caramel and a bit of chewiness to the crumb.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps your bread tender and moist, allowing all the flavors to shine through.
Eggs: Offer structure and richness while helping the loaf rise beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a lovely aroma and that little something special.
All-Purpose Flour: Creates the foundation of your loaf, yielding a soft but sturdy structure.
Baking Soda: Gives the bread a nice lift and fluffy crumb.
Baking Powder: Teams up with baking soda for a bit of extra rise.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and helps all the flavors pop.
Ground Cinnamon: Invites cozy warmth and signature spice to every bite.
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): Add satisfying crunch and a nutty touch—feel free to leave them out or use your favorite nut.

How to Make Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start your baking adventure by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard loaf pan. This not only prevents sticking but also sets the stage for that beautiful golden crust that’s so signature to Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread.

Step 2: Grate and Drain the Zucchini

Grate your zucchinis using a box grater, then wrap the shreds in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can—removing excess liquid ensures your loaf bakes up perfectly moist, not soggy.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil, whisking until smooth. Crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract, then whisk again. You’re looking for a well-blended, creamy base that promises wonderful texture once baked.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. These all work together to provide structure and flavor without any lumps.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring only until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make your bread tough. Finish by folding in the grated zucchini and, if desired, a handful of nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth

Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth out the top. This step gets you that picture-perfect finish once baked.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack, so the crust sets up beautifully.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread

Garnishes

For a classic touch, dust your zucchini bread with a little powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. A pat of butter melting over each warm slice elevates the experience, adding richness and a touch of nostalgia.

Side Dishes

Pair your Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread with a scoop of creamy Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a breakfast worthy of a lazy weekend. It also makes a delicious companion to coffee, chai, or a glass of cold milk for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing and toasting leftovers for a crunchy twist, or cube and layer pieces in a trifle with whipped cream and fruit. For parties, bake the batter in mini loaf pans or muffin tins—everyone loves a personal-sized treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors only deepen with time and the texture seems to get even better with a little rest.

Freezing

Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread freezes beautifully. Slice the bread, wrap individual pieces in plastic, and pop them in a freezer bag. You can pull out just what you need for quick snacks or breakfasts.

Reheating

To enjoy your bread warm, simply pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. The gentle heat brings back that just-baked aroma and revives the tender crumb.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

Not at all! The skin is tender and adds color as well as nutrients to your Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread. Just give your zucchini a quick wash before grating.

Can I make this Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute your favorite all-purpose gluten-free flour blend in place of the wheat flour. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best results.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you’re out of brown sugar, simply use an extra half cup of granulated sugar. You can also add a teaspoon of molasses for that classic depth of flavor, if you have it on hand.

How do I know when my zucchini bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Overbaking can dry it out, so start checking after 50 minutes.

Can I add chocolate chips or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Fold in up to a cup of chocolate chips, raisins, or even chopped dried apricots for an extra surprise in every bite. Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is fabulously adaptable to your tastes.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is the kind of treat that never goes out of style. Baking a loaf brings comfort, warmth, and an unbeatable aroma to your kitchen—if you’ve never tried it, now’s your chance! Grab some zucchinis and get ready to discover just how delicious homemade tradition can be.

Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 12 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the abundance of summer zucchinis. Moist and flavorful, this bread is perfect for breakfast or as a tasty snack.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchinis and remove excess moisture by squeezing with a kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisk until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Combine Everything: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Stir in grated zucchini and nuts if using.
Pour into Pan: Transfer batter into prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American