This Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread recipe has been passed down for generations, resulting in a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for any occasion. With a hint of cinnamon and the sweetness of raisins and nuts, this bread is a delightful treat for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert.
This recipe’s charm lies in its simplicity. Combining simple ingredients like eggs, sugar, oil, flour, and spices with freshly grated zucchini creates a wonderfully textured and flavorful bread. The addition of nuts and raisins adds a satisfying crunch and extra sweetness.
Baking the Perfect Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread
The process begins by combining wet ingredients – eggs, sugar, and oil – in a single bowl. Dry ingredients, including flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, are then gradually incorporated. The key to a moist loaf is to squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter along with vanilla extract. Finally, fold in raisins and nuts.
The batter is then poured into a well-greased and floured bundt pan. This classic pan not only ensures even baking but also adds an elegant touch to the finished loaf. Baking at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes yields a golden brown and perfectly cooked zucchini bread. Using a toothpick to check for doneness is crucial; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Tips for Success with Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread
While the recipe is straightforward, a few tips guarantee success:
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Bundt Pan Preparation: Generously greasing and flouring the bundt pan prevents the bread from sticking and ensures a clean release. A non-stick baking spray can also be used.
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Cooling and Removing from the Pan: Allowing the bread to cool completely in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate prevents breakage and sticking. Gently shaking the pan before inverting helps loosen the loaf.
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Loaf Pan Alternative: A standard loaf pan can be substituted for a bundt pan. Baking times may need adjusting depending on the size of the loaf pan.
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Preventing Soggy Bread: Thoroughly squeezing out excess moisture from the grated zucchini is essential for a moist yet not soggy loaf.
Freezing and Storing Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread
To enjoy this old fashioned zucchini bread later, slice and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen zucchini bread can be thawed and enjoyed for several months. For shorter-term storage, keep the bread at room temperature in a covered container for a few days.
Enjoying Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread
This versatile bread is delicious on its own or enhanced with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a simple dessert, this old fashioned zucchini bread is sure to become a family favorite.
