Lemon Glazed Zucchini Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing together the freshness of zucchini with a bright lemon glaze. Perfect for any season, this bread is a flavorful way to use up that extra zucchini from your garden or grocery run.
All-purpose flour forms the base of the bread, providing structure. Baking soda and baking powder are key for leavening, ensuring the bread rises nicely. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. A dash of ground cinnamon adds a warm, comforting note.
Unsalted butter and vegetable oil together give the bread a moist and tender crumb. Granulated sugar sweetens the bread, while a large egg helps bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds a hint of depth and aroma.
Grated zucchini keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle earthiness. The zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of lemon juice infuse the bread with a refreshing citrus flavor. Chopped walnuts contribute a lovely crunch and nutty taste.
For the glaze, powdered sugar and a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice come together to create a sweet, tangy drizzle that perfectly complements the bread.
Enjoy this bread slightly warm with a pat of butter for breakfast. It's also delightful as an afternoon snack with a cup of herbal tea. For dessert, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing treat.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x5-inch loaf pan and grease it well. This step ensures your bread slips out easily after baking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set this bowl aside for now.
In a larger bowl, mix the melted butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until they're well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined – overmixing can make the bread tough.
Carefully fold in the grated zucchini, lemon zest, lemon juice, and walnuts. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Bake in your preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the glaze, simply whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle it over the cooled bread before serving.