Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is a delightful and moist treat, bursting with fresh lemon flavor and the subtle sweetness of zucchini.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T08:21:49.011Z

This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is not only a delicious way to use up summer zucchini, but it's also a fantastic way to brighten your day with a hint of citrus. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Bright citrus flavor that elevates your taste buds
  • Moist and tender texture that keeps you coming back for more
  • A great way to sneak in veggies for a healthier treat

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread strikes a beautiful balance between the tartness of fresh lemons and the natural sweetness of zucchini. The lemon zest and juice create a delightful citrus punch, while the grated zucchini contributes moisture and a subtle earthiness that complements the bright flavors. This combination not only pleases the palate but also makes the bread incredibly moist and tender, ensuring every bite is a joyful experience.

In addition to its flavor profile, the bread is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a dessert, its delightful taste and appealing texture make it a suitable choice for various occasions. Pair it with your morning coffee or enjoy it as an afternoon pick-me-up, and you’ll find that this quick bread becomes a staple in your recipe collection.

A Healthier Indulgence

One of the best aspects of this Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is how it sneaks in healthy ingredients without compromising on flavor. Zucchini, a low-calorie vegetable, adds moisture and nutritional value while remaining virtually undetectable in the final product. This allows you to indulge in a delicious treat while also incorporating a serving of veggies into your diet, making it a guilt-free option for those mindful of their health.

Moreover, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit various dietary preferences. You can substitute refined flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber, or replace granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the bread while still catering to personal dietary choices.

Tips for Success

For the best results, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf, while insufficient zucchini may result in a dry bread. Use a kitchen scale for precision, or ensure that you spoon and level the flour rather than scooping it directly from the bag. This simple step can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your quick bread.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with add-ins. Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, can add a delightful crunch, while chocolate chips provide a sweet surprise. Just remember to keep the overall balance in mind, ensuring that any additions don't overwhelm the primary flavors of lemon and zucchini. Enjoy the process of making this recipe your own!

Ingredients

For the Bread

  • 1 cup grated zucchini
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini before measuring.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread

To keep your Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit denser.

For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature for a few hours before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This quick bread is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your serving experience. Consider spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or butter on warm slices for added richness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can also add a touch of sweetness and make it visually appealing for gatherings or special occasions.

For a delightful brunch option, serve the bread alongside fresh fruit and a dollop of yogurt. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also adds a nutritious component to your meal. Whether you're hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these serving suggestions will make your Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread even more enjoyable.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the zucchini well before using.

→ Is it necessary to peel the zucchini?

No, you can leave the skin on for added nutrients and a bit of color.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread

This Lemon Zucchini Quick Bread is a delightful and moist treat, bursting with fresh lemon flavor and the subtle sweetness of zucchini.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration50 minutes
Overall Time65 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 1 loaf

What You'll Need

For the Bread

  1. 1 cup grated zucchini
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  7. 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  8. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  9. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  10. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  11. 1/2 teaspoon salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well blended.

Step 03

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 06

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 3g