There’s just something magical about a fresh loaf of Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread. It’s that perfect balance of sweet and spice, with a crumb so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking to use up summer garden zucchini or simply craving a cozy homemade treat, this recipe never disappoints. Every bite brings nostalgia along with just the right amount of crunch from toasted nuts. If you’ve never tried baking zucchini bread from scratch, you’re in for a real delight!

Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe, but each ingredient pulls its weight to create the ultimate loaf. Fresh zucchini brings moisture and a subtle earthiness, while sugars and spices provide just the right sweetness and warmth. Here’s what you’ll gather before you start:

Zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini is the star ingredient, giving the bread its signature moisture and tender crumb.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the loaf and helps it stay soft for days.
Brown sugar: The packed brown sugar adds a gentle molasses flavor and an extra layer of moisture.
Vegetable oil: Oil keeps the bread plush, preventing any dryness.
Eggs: Three whole large eggs lift and bind the batter beautifully.
Vanilla extract: Just a couple teaspoons infuse the bread with a comforting aroma.
All-purpose flour: The perfect base for structure without being heavy.
Baking soda: This creates rise and that lovely domed loaf top.
Baking powder: Adds extra leavening to create a lighter texture.
Salt: Just enough to balance out flavors and enhance the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Warm notes of cinnamon make each bite cozy and aromatic.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds crunch and a hint of nuttiness; toast them for even more flavor if you like.

How to Make Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

The very first step sets you up for bread success. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring even baking from start to finish. Don’t forget to grease your standard loaf pan—use a swipe of butter or a spritz of cooking spray so the bread pops out like a dream once baked.

Step 2: Grate and Squeeze the Zucchini

Take your two medium zucchinis and grate them using the large holes of a box grater. The secret to Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is using well-drained zucchini rather than soggy shreds, so after grating, wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess moisture over the sink. This keeps the texture just right—moist, never soggy.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a roomy bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the sugars dissolve and everything looks silky. Next, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract. You’re aiming for a glossy, smooth mixture that smells like bakery heaven.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Grab a second bowl for the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Give them all a good whisk together—this ensures the leaveners and spice are distributed evenly, preventing clumps in your finished loaf.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now comes the fun: gently fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Don’t over-mix or the bread could get tough—just combine until you can’t see streaks of flour. Fold in the grated zucchini (and nuts, if using) for that signature speckled look and unbeatable moisture.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth

Scrape every last bit of batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This step helps the bread bake evenly and gives you those picture-perfect slices later.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. When a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean—or with a few moist crumbs—it’s ready. Let your Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread cool in the pan for a bit, then finish cooling on a wire rack so the crumb sets just right.

How to Serve Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread

Garnishes

Dress up each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for a simple, elegant finish. If you’re feeling extra cozy, a pat of softened butter melting into the warm bread is pure comfort. For a twist, a quick glaze of lemon or orange zest can add a pop of citrusy brightness.

Side Dishes

Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is perfect alongside a steaming mug of coffee or tea for a memorable morning treat. Pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh berries for a light brunch, or add crisp bacon and scrambled eggs for a full country breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread thick and lightly toast it for a new texture, or use it to make decadent French toast. For parties, cube the loaf and serve with a creamy dip (think whipped cream cheese) for a sweet snack board. You can even bake the batter as muffins for handy, snackable portions on busy days.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and flavorful for up to three days, so you can enjoy a slice anytime without worrying about it drying out.

Freezing

This bread freezes wonderfully! Simply wrap the whole loaf or individual slices in plastic and then aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. Label and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight at room temperature and it will taste just as fresh as the day you baked it.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked warmth, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds or heat in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes. If you like, top with a dab of butter right after reheating and let it melt in for an extra dose of comfort.

FAQs

Can I make Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Just check that your baking powder and other add-ins are gluten-free if you’re particularly sensitive.

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

Nope, no need! The peel is thin and tender, and it adds pretty green flecks to the bread. Just wash and trim the ends before grating.

How can I tell when my zucchini bread is done baking?

Start checking at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the loaf’s center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If the top is browning too fast, tent it with foil for the final stretch.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can swap in melted coconut oil or light olive oil for a hint of flavor, or even use half unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option. Keep the ratios the same for best results.

Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even toasted coconut flakes can all be folded in with the zucchini for a twist on classic Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread. Just keep the total mix-ins under 3/4 cup to avoid a heavy batter.

Final Thoughts

Baking up a loaf of Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread fills your kitchen with the best kind of nostalgia, and every slice is a hug in food form. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s a keeper for family brunches, neighborly gifts, or whenever you crave a slice of something truly homemade and heartwarming.

Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Moist Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of grated zucchini, warm spices, and crunchy nuts makes this bread a delightful treat.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchinis and remove excess moisture by squeezing with a kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Combine Everything: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir in grated zucchini and nuts if using.
Pour into Pan: Transfer batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

You can add chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
This bread freezes well for future enjoyment.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 240
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Zucchini Bread, Old Fashioned, Moist, Baking, Homemade