Zucchini Banana Bread

Zucchini Banana Bread is the perfect marriage of two beloved quick breads—classic banana bread and moist zucchini bread. This wholesome loaf blends naturally sweet, ripe bananas with finely grated zucchini to create a tender, ultra-moist bread that’s packed with flavor yet surprisingly light. The zucchini melts seamlessly into the batter, adding moisture without overpowering the banana flavor, making this bread a delicious way to sneak in vegetables.

Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, Zucchini Banana Bread is comforting, nutritious, and versatile. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or sliced straight from the fridge, this recipe is a reliable favorite for families and home bakers alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly moist and forgiving. It’s a fantastic way to use overripe bananas and extra zucchini, and it always turns out soft, flavorful, and fragrant. Plus, it feels indulgent while still being wholesome, which makes it perfect for everyday baking.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Naturally moist without being greasy
• Great way to use ripe bananas and fresh zucchini
• Kid-friendly and vegetable-packed
• Perfect for meal prep and freezing
• Works as breakfast, snack, or dessert

Recipe Overview

• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 10 slices
• Calories (Approx.): 230–260 kcal per slice

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup finely grated zucchini (lightly squeezed)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare loaf pan and preheat oven
2. Mix dry ingredients
3. Combine wet ingredients
4. Fold together wet and dry mixtures
5. Bake until golden and set

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix mashed bananas, grated zucchini, sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Batter

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

How to Serve Zucchini Banana Bread

• Serve warm with butter or cream cheese
• Enjoy with coffee or tea
• Toast slices lightly for breakfast
• Add honey or nut butter for extra flavor
• Serve as dessert with a drizzle of chocolate

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for best sweetness
• Squeeze excess moisture from zucchini
• Do not overmix the batter
• Tent with foil if browning too fast
• Let cool fully before slicing for clean cuts

Variations (Detailed)

1. Whole Wheat Zucchini Banana Bread

Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.

2. Vegan Version

Use flax eggs and plant-based milk.

3. Gluten-Free Option

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

4. Spiced Zucchini Banana Bread

Add nutmeg and cloves for warm spice notes.

5. Healthier Version

Reduce sugar and use applesauce instead of oil.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

• Store at room temperature for 3 days
• Refrigerate up to 7 days

Freezing

• Wrap slices or whole loaf tightly
• Freeze for up to 3 months

Reheating

• Thaw overnight or microwave slices for 20–30 seconds

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Box grater (for zucchini)
• Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Zucchini Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful, and wonderfully comforting bake that blends nutrition with indulgence. With its tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and versatile serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re baking for family, guests, or yourself, this loaf is guaranteed to impress while keeping things simple and wholesome.