Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is the perfect recipe for you! It’s moist, delicious, and surprisingly packed with hidden nutrition thanks to the zucchini. This quick bread is a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, and I promise no one will even know they’re there! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe even more special is how well it keeps. The flavors develop beautifully over time, making it even tastier on day two—if it lasts that long! So grab those zucchinis and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, perfect for those who want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the gooey chocolate chips, while parents can feel good about adding zucchini to their diet.
• Make ahead: You can bake this bread ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week; it stores well at room temperature or in the fridge.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, a snack, or even dessert—it fits any occasion wonderfully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful loaf!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 and 2/3 cups (208g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter (processed or natural)
• 2/3 cup (133g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (113g) honey
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (any kind), at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-Ins

• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) shredded zucchini (no need to blot)
• 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Change up the sweetener: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using maple syrup instead of honey.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make muffins: Use this batter to create delicious muffins instead of bread; just adjust the baking time!

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Greasing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray ensures easy removal later. Set it aside while you gather your ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the oil, peanut butter, brown sugar, honey, eggs, milk, and vanilla until well combined. Pour these wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently stir until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread!

Step 4: Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips

Using a silicone spatula, fold in the shredded zucchini and chocolate chips until evenly distributed. The batter should be slightly thick at this point; that’s just right!

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–70 minutes. Be sure to loosely cover with aluminum foil halfway through if it starts browning too much. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs.

Step 6: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for about an hour before removing from the pan. While you can slice it warm, letting it cool completely ensures neat slices.

Now you have a scrumptious loaf of Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread ready for enjoying! Whether you share it with friends or keep it all to yourself—it’s bound to bring smiles all around.

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Baking can be a delightful journey, and these tips will help you create the most delicious loaf!

• Use fresh zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini provides moisture and flavor. Older zucchini may have excess water, impacting the texture of your bread.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the ingredients ensures a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, which we want to avoid!
• Check for doneness: Every oven is different! Start checking your bread around the 55-minute mark to ensure it’s perfectly baked without being dry.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool on a wire rack prevents sogginess and helps maintain its structure for beautiful slices.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

This scrumptious bread is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ideas to enjoy every slice!

Garnishes

• Creamy peanut butter spread: A light smear of creamy peanut butter on top enhances the peanut flavor while adding extra richness.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Fresh berries: A few fresh raspberries or strawberries serve as a refreshing touch that pairs beautifully with the sweet bread.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side makes for a protein-packed breakfast or snack, balancing out the sweetness of the bread.
• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad brings freshness and brightness to your plate, complementing the rich flavors of the zucchini bread.
• Chia seed pudding: This creamy yet light pudding pairs nicely, offering a healthy option alongside your slice of heaven.
• Coffee or tea: Brew up your favorite coffee or tea; both beverages make an excellent companion for this indulgent treat any time of day.

Enjoy your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! Whether you’re having it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, it’s sure to brighten your day.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a loaf and enjoy it throughout the week, making breakfast or snacks a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to 1 week; just be sure to keep it tightly sealed to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or an airtight container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• For individual slices, pop them in the toaster for a few minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating the whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), then wrap the bread in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon of either mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg).

What can I use instead of honey in Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread?

If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, maple syrup works beautifully. Just use the same amount as indicated in the recipe.

How long does Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, this bread lasts for about 5 days; refrigerating extends its shelf life up to a week.

Can I turn this recipe into muffins?

Yes! Simply pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for around 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Is there a gluten-free option for Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread?

Certainly! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking and has xanthan gum included if necessary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that truly makes every bite special. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or after a day of letting those flavors deepen, it’s bound to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, get baking, and share this tasty treat with your loved ones! Happy baking!