There is nothing like baking something with fresh fruit or vegetables picked straight from your garden! One of my favorite things to grow in the garden is zucchini. They are so easy to grow and can be prepared in so many different ways. Though zucchini is most commonly used for cooking in savory meals, it is also a great addition to baked goods.
Every time I pick a zucchini from the garden my son gets really excited and asks if we can make zucchini bread. He is not a vegetable eater and avoids anything green. To get him to eat any vegetables I have to disguise it in the food. I’ve even tried zoodles covered in sauce, but he wasn’t fooled. This is pretty much the only way he will knowingly eat zucchini. Probably because it taste more like a dessert, but hey, he’s eating it right! Luckily this zucchini bread is a healthier version, so go ahead, grab two slices instead of one.
For this recipe you will need 2 cups grated zucchini which is about one large zucchini. We use a food processor for this, but if you don’t have one the large section of a hand held grater will do. We recommend grating the zucchini first so it can sit and let any excess liquid drain out. Before adding the zucchini to the batter give it a squeeze to remove any excess liquid.
The secret ingredients in this recipe are applesauce and honey. Applesauce is a great substitute for butter or oil. The honey is used in place of sugar as a healthier sweetener. In addition to being healthier options, both ingredients add great flavor and texture to the zucchini bread.
Well time to head out to the garden! We have a zucchini ready to pick and it’s asking to be turned into a delicious bread. If you try this recipe we would love to know what you think. Comment below and tag us on Instagram. As always, Happy Baking! -Ami
Healthier Zucchini Bread
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup raw honey
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated zucchini
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a 5″x9″ loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt and set aside.
- In the bowl of your stand mixer fitter with the paddle attachment, beat together the eggs, applesauce, honey and vanilla.
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the flour mixture until combined.
- Stir in the zucchini.
- Pour batter into loaf pan and bake for approximately 60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing.
