This moist and flavorful Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat for any occasion. The addition of Greek yogurt adds a tangy richness and keeps the bread incredibly tender, while the zucchini provides moisture and a subtle sweetness. Enjoy a slice for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium), excess moisture squeezed out
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash and trim the zucchini. Grate it using a box grater.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add the grated and squeezed zucchini.
- If you are adding nuts, raisins or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the loaf pan with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for extra warmth.
- Lemon zest: Adding the zest of one lemon to the wet ingredients adds a nice bright flavor.
- Mini loaves: This recipe can also be used to make mini loaves. Adjust baking time accordingly (around 25-35 minutes).
- Frosting: For a sweeter treat, top the cooled bread with a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze.
Enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread!