Zucchini bread is a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of fresh summer squash, transforming it into a moist, flavorful treat that the whole family will love. Making zucchini bread in a bread machine takes the hassle out of traditional baking, allowing you to effortlessly create this sweet, spiced loaf with minimal cleanup and fuss.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this bread machine recipe for zucchini bread offers a perfect balance of sweetness, spices, and the subtle freshness of zucchini. It’s a wonderful way to sneak some veggies into your day while indulging in a comforting homemade bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.
In this post, I’ll guide you through every step to make the best zucchini bread right in your bread machine. From selecting the right ingredients to helpful tips and variations, you’ll be ready to enjoy this nourishing loaf anytime you want.
Plus, I’ll share some tasty serving suggestions and nutritional insights to keep your baking both delicious and wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Convenience meets deliciousness. Using a bread machine means you can combine all ingredients quickly and let the machine handle the mixing, kneading, rising, and baking.
No need to dirty multiple bowls or babysit your loaf in the oven.
Moist and tender texture. Zucchini adds natural moisture to the bread, keeping it soft and fresh for days.
The bread machine ensures consistent baking for perfect texture every time.
Customizable flavors. This recipe uses warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, but you can easily adjust seasonings or add nuts and chocolate chips to suit your taste.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up garden-fresh zucchini or leftover squash, helping reduce food waste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis, squeezed dry)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole wheat flour (optional for added fiber)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
Equipment
- Bread machine with a loaf pan and kneading paddle
- Grater or food processor for shredding zucchini
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (optional, for squeezing zucchini)
- Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth for draining zucchini
- Spatula for mixing optional add-ins
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a soggy bread.
- Add wet ingredients to the bread machine pan: Crack eggs into the bread pan, then add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Beat the eggs lightly with a fork to combine.
- Add sugars: Pour the granulated sugar and brown sugar into the pan over the wet ingredients.
- Add the grated zucchini: Spread the squeezed zucchini evenly over the wet ingredients and sugars.
- Sift dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add dry ingredients to the pan: Carefully spoon the dry mixture over the wet ingredients and zucchini, covering them completely. This layering helps the bread machine mix the ingredients properly.
- Set your bread machine: Choose the “Quick Bread” or “Cake” cycle on your bread machine, usually about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Select the medium or light crust color if your machine has this option.
- Add nuts and raisins/chocolate chips: When your machine signals the “add nuts” beep (usually near the end of the kneading cycle), add chopped nuts and raisins or chocolate chips evenly. If your machine lacks this feature, add them after the first mixing cycle but before baking starts.
- Start the machine and bake: Close the lid and let the bread machine do its magic. Avoid opening the lid during baking to maintain temperature and rising.
- Cool the bread: Once the baking cycle finishes, carefully remove the bread pan using oven mitts. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
“For extra moisture, add ½ cup of applesauce or mashed banana to the wet ingredients—but reduce the oil slightly to compensate.”
- Spice it up: Experiment with cardamom, cloves, or ginger for a different spice profile.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the flours with a gluten-free all-purpose blend and add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum for structure.
- Nut-free version: Simply omit nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
- Add texture: Fold in shredded coconut, chopped dates, or dried cranberries instead of raisins.
- Sweetness level: Adjust sugar quantities to your preference or use coconut sugar or maple syrup (reduce liquids accordingly).
- Storage: Store zucchini bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Slice (1/12 loaf) |
---|---|
Calories | 160 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 12 g |
Sodium | 150 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Zucchini bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Enjoy a warm slice spread with butter or cream cheese for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack.
For a lighter option, try it with a smear of almond butter or your favorite nut spread.
Serve alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or even a chilled glass of milk. For a decadent dessert, top toasted slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with honey and chopped toasted nuts.
This bread also makes a great base for a breakfast strata or French toast.
If you love experimenting with plant-based meals, you might also enjoy these recipes: Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.
Conclusion
Making zucchini bread in a bread machine is a game-changer for anyone who loves delicious, homemade quick breads without the mess and effort of traditional baking. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and ease, making it an ideal treat for busy mornings, snack times, or even a simple dessert.
The subtle sweetness combined with warm spices and the gentle texture from fresh zucchini ensures every bite is comforting and satisfying.
With easy customization options and the convenience of your bread machine, you can whip up this delightful loaf any time zucchini is in season or whenever you crave something wholesome and sweet. Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes on the site to keep your kitchen adventures fresh and inspiring!
📖 Recipe Card: Bread Machine Recipe for Zucchini Bread
Description: A moist and flavorful zucchini bread made easily in your bread machine. Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT1H30M
Total Time: PT1H45M
Servings: 1 loaf (10-12 slices)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Grate zucchini and set aside.
- Add liquid ingredients to the bread machine pan: eggs, oil, and vanilla.
- Add grated zucchini on top of liquids.
- Add dry ingredients over the zucchini: flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add walnuts last, if using.
- Select the 'Quick Bread' or 'Cake' cycle on the bread machine.
- Start the machine and bake until the cycle completes.
- Remove the bread and let it cool before slicing.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 32g
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