Zucchini Bread Swirl with Cinnamon

This Zucchini Bread Swirl with Cinnamon is a moist, tender quick bread enriched with fresh zucchini and warmly spiced with a cinnamon-sugar swirl. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting afternoon snack, this homemade loaf delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This zucchini bread offers a wholesome twist on traditional sweet breads, incorporating the natural moisture and subtle flavor of zucchini with a classic cinnamon swirl. It’s easy to prepare, requires no mixer, and stores well—making it ideal for busy households or make-ahead baking. Whether you’re using up surplus zucchini or just craving a spiced treat, this recipe is a dependable favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Grated zucchini

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Eggs

• Vegetable oil

• Baking soda

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Ground cinnamon

• Vanilla extract

For the cinnamon swirl:

• Granulated sugar

• Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Stir in the grated zucchini.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

6. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for the swirl.

7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.

8. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the sugar into the batter.

9. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 loaf, which provides approximately 10 slices.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 55–65 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

• Gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

• Vegan: Use flax eggs and a plant-based oil to make this recipe dairy-free and vegan-friendly.

• Mini loaves or muffins: Divide the batter into smaller loaf pans or muffin tins and adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly for a crisp edge.

FAQs

What does zucchini add to the bread?

Zucchini adds moisture and a tender texture without imparting a strong flavor. It also boosts the nutritional content.

Can I peel the zucchini before grating?

Yes, though it’s not necessary. The skin is soft and blends into the batter during baking.

How do I prevent the bread from being too wet?

Make sure to lightly squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini before adding it to the batter.

Can I make this recipe with whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it may result in a denser loaf. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

Is this bread overly sweet?

No, the sweetness is balanced by the warm spices and the natural moisture of the zucchini.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter can be substituted, though it may produce a slightly denser texture.

Why is my bread not rising properly?

Ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh and not expired, and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I omit the cinnamon swirl?

Yes, the bread will still be delicious, though the swirl adds extra flavor and visual appeal.

How long should the bread cool before slicing?

Let it cool for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up and slice cleanly.

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Yes, but thaw and drain it thoroughly before use to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

Zucchini Bread Swirl with Cinnamon is a comforting and flavorful quick bread that combines wholesome ingredients with a sweet cinnamon ribbon for a delightful treat. It’s easy to customize, stores well, and is sure to become a go-to favorite for home bakers looking to enjoy seasonal produce in a deliciously spiced loaf.

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