Lemon Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat that transforms fresh garden zucchini into a moist and flavorful loaf. With its vibrant lemon flavor and tender texture, this bread is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon snacks to brunch gatherings. It’s easy to make and highlights the best of summer produce, making it an irresistible addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and juice provides a refreshing tang that complements the moist zucchini perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or drizzled with a lemon glaze for added sweetness.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious loaf.
• Great for Meal Prep: This bread freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it later without losing its delightful taste.
• Healthy Twist: Incorporating zucchini adds moisture without excess fat, making it a healthier dessert option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini loaf pans or large loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Grater (for zucchini)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini loaf pans: Perfect for portion control and baking evenly. They create cute little loaves that are ideal for sharing.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly. Having multiple bowls helps organize your preparation process.
• Whisk: A must-have for mixing dry and wet ingredients thoroughly. It ensures a light texture in the finished bread.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon table salt or fine sea salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)

Add-ins

• 1 cup shredded zucchini

For Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• juice of 1 lemon

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Lemon Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Prepare four mini loaf pans (6x 3½) by spraying them well with cooking spray. Alternatively, you can use one large loaf pan (9x 5).

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs. Add granulated sugar, canola oil, buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Zucchini

Add the shredded zucchini into the wet ingredients mixture. Stir gently until combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze

While the bread is baking, combine powdered sugar with lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, allow the loaves to cool slightly before removing them from the pans. Drizzle with tangy lemon glaze while still warm for extra flavor!

Enjoy your freshly baked Lemon Zucchini Bread as a delightful snack or dessert!

How to Serve Lemon Zucchini Bread

Lemon Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a charming dessert, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Toasted with Butter

• Warm and Buttery: Slice the Lemon Zucchini Bread and toast it lightly. Spread some butter on top for a warm, rich flavor.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Sweet Finish: Add an extra touch by drizzling a tangy lemon glaze over the bread. This enhances the lemon flavor and makes it visually appealing.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Fruity Pairing: Serve slices alongside fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. The sweetness of the fruit complements the tanginess of the bread perfectly.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Perfect Beverage Match: Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. The citrus notes in the bread pair beautifully with both drinks.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Morning Delight: Lemon Zucchini Bread makes for an excellent breakfast option. Pair it with yogurt for added protein and creaminess.

With Whipped Cream

• Decadent Dessert: Top a slice of bread with whipped cream for a light and fluffy dessert option that’s perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Lemon Zucchini Bread

Making the perfect Lemon Zucchini Bread requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your bread turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh zucchini and lemons to achieve the best flavor profile in your Lemon Zucchini Bread.
• Grate Zucchini Finely: A finely grated zucchini will blend better into the batter, ensuring even moisture distribution throughout the bread.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid dense bread. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your bread around 30 minutes to prevent overbaking. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Zucchini Bread

While Lemon Zucchini Bread is delicious on its own, pairing it with other dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great side dish options that complement this delightful treat.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing and protein-packed side that balances sweetness.
2. Citrus Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, orange segments, and a light vinaigrette offers brightness that pairs well with the lemon flavor.
3. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses such as goat cheese or brie, along with crackers and nuts, to create an elegant spread alongside your bread.
4. Fresh Fruit Bowl: A bowl of assorted fresh fruits provides natural sweetness and adds color to your table setting.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with seeds, nuts, and coconut flakes for a vibrant, nutritious side.
6. Chilled Soup: A refreshing cucumber or gazpacho soup serves as a light starter that prepares your palate for the zesty flavors of Lemon Zucchini Bread.
7. Savory Scones: Consider serving savory scones filled with cheese or herbs as an interesting contrast to the sweet notes of the bread.
8. Herbal Tea Infusion: Offer herbal teas like chamomile or mint as soothing beverages that enhance the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Zucchini Bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your efforts. Keep these in mind to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Using too much flour: Adding excess flour can make your bread dense and dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately.
• Not squeezing out zucchini moisture: Failing to remove excess moisture from the shredded zucchini can result in a soggy loaf. Pat the zucchini with a paper towel before adding it to the batter.
• Skipping the lemon zest: Omitting lemon zest means missing out on a significant flavor boost. Always include fresh zest for that bright, tangy taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough bread due to gluten development. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not checking doneness: Removing the bread too early can leave it undercooked. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Zucchini Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Zucchini Bread

• Wrap individual slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour for Lemon Zucchini Bread?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for added nutrition. However, this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I know when my Lemon Zucchini Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Lemon Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Just keep your mix-ins around 1 cup total.

What can I do if my bread is too dry?

If your Lemon Zucchini Bread turns out dry, try adding more zucchini next time or incorporating an extra tablespoon of oil or buttermilk into the batter.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat that combines refreshing citrus with tender zucchini in every bite. It’s perfect for snacking or as a sweet breakfast option. Feel free to customize it with nuts or spices to suit your taste! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its versatility—you won’t be disappointed!

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Lemon Zucchini Bread

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 12 slices 1x

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Description

Lemon Zucchini Bread is a refreshing and moist loaf that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh lemons and tender zucchini, making it a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. This quick bread is incredibly versatile, perfect as a snack, breakfast treat, or a sweet finish to any meal. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it captures the essence of summer produce while offering a healthier dessert option. Serve it plain, toasted with butter, or drizzled with a tangy lemon glaze for an irresistible touch. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or frozen for later, Lemon Zucchini Bread promises a burst of flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup canola oil
• ½ cup buttermilk
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 cup shredded zucchini

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare mini or large loaf pans with cooking spray.
2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs and mix in sugar, oil, buttermilk, lemon zest, and juice until combined.
4. Stir shredded zucchini into the wet mixture.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. While baking, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for the glaze.
8. Cool loaves slightly before glazing and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 205
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or chocolate chips (up to 1 cup total). Ensure you squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to prevent sogginess.