Spiced Walnut Zucchini Bread

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 12
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Spiced Walnut Zucchini Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing warmth and texture to every bite. Perfect for using up that garden zucchini and adding a cozy touch to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients for Spiced Walnut Zucchini Bread

Granulated sugar and brown sugar provide the sweetness and flavor depth. The brown sugar adds a slight caramel note that pairs wonderfully with the spices.

Eggs act as a binder and give structure to the bread.

Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist and tender.

Vanilla extract enhances the flavor, adding a subtle sweetness.

All-purpose flour is the base that holds everything together.

Baking soda and baking powder help the bread rise, while salt enhances the flavors.

Ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg bring warmth and spice that make this bread so comforting.

Grated zucchini adds moisture and a sneaky way to include veggies.

Chopped walnuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra layer of flavor, toast the walnuts before folding them into the batter.
  • Use a box grater for the zucchini; no need to peel it, but do squeeze out excess moisture.
  • If you like a bit more spice, increase the cinnamon to 1.5 teaspoons.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is delightful on its own, but for a special touch, try serving it warm with a spread of cream cheese or butter. A drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a nice touch. Pair it with a chai latte or a warm mug of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this zucchini bread?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months frozen.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds are great alternatives.

Spiced Walnut Zucchini Bread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's ready to go once your batter is mixed. Grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans—it's a quick task that saves you a lot of trouble later when it's time to release the baked bread.

In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until you achieve a smooth mixture. This step is crucial for a consistent texture in your bread.

Next, add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the sugar-egg mixture. Mix until everything is well combined; this creates the liquid base for your batter.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices in your bread.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so be gentle here.

Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped walnuts. These should be evenly distributed throughout the batter for even flavor and texture.

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared loaf pans. A quick visual check is all you need to ensure even baking.

Bake for 55-60 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy at the bottom.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The perfect balance of spice and sweetness.
  • Moist and tender texture with a satisfying crunch from walnuts.
  • Simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
  • A great way to sneak in some veggies.
  • Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup chopped walnuts

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.
3. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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