Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Transform your kitchen into a haven of rich, chocolatey goodness with this Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Bread. Bursting with cocoa flavor and enriched with the hidden moistness of zucchini, this bread is a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your diet. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it’s sure to win over even the pickiest of eaters.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax eggs)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
  • 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your batter is mixed.
  • Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Ensure there are no lumps and everything is well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

  • Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax eggs), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; mix only until no streaks of flour remain.

Step 5: Add Zucchini and Chocolate Chips

  • Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini and 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

  • Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Cool in Pan: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set.
  • Transfer to Wire Rack: Move the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Use a knife around the edges to help release it if needed.

Serving Suggestions

  • Warm with Butter: Enjoy warm slices with a pat of vegan butter.
  • With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for an extra treat.
  • Dust with Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Nuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
  • Different Sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
  • Dairy-Free: Ensure all chocolate chips are dairy-free or use vegan chocolate chunks.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Yields: About 12 slices

  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 22g
  • Protein: 4g

Enjoy this delicious and versatile Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Bread as a nourishing treat that seamlessly blends rich chocolate flavor with the health benefits of zucchini. Happy baking! 🍫🥒