Name: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 48 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups flour; 1 tsp Cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 3 eggs; 2 cups white sugar; ⅓ cup Vegetable Oil; 1 cup canned pumpkin; 2 cups zucchini; ½ cup Walnuts; mini chocolate chips; For Cream Cheese Glaze:; ¼ cup cream cheese; 4 tbsp powdered sugar; 4 tbsp light cream

Embrace the fall season with this delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and spices, resulting in a moist, tasty bread that’s ideal for breakfast or dessert. The surprise addition of zucchini adds extra moisture and texture, while the combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Photos of Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are fairly common and you might already have them at home. However, canned pumpkin and zucchini may not always be on your grocery list. Keep in mind that canned pumpkin is different from pumpkin pie filling. The latter is pre-spiced and sweetened, which we don’t want for this recipe. For zucchini, choose ones that are small to medium-sized, as they are less watery and have better flavor.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Flour: The base ingredient for most bread recipes. It provides structure.

Cinnamon: A spice that adds a warming flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.

Baking soda & Baking powder: Leavening agents that help the bread rise.

Eggs: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to the bread.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and fat, contributing to the bread's texture.

Canned pumpkin: Adds flavor and moisture.

Zucchini: Adds moistness without altering the flavor of the bread.

Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture.

Mini chocolate chips: Adds a sweet, chocolatey flavor.

Cream cheese: A key ingredient for the glaze, providing a tangy flavor.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.

Light cream: Thins the glaze to the desired consistency.

One reader, Donn Huntley says:

This pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread recipe is a game-changer! The combination of pumpkin, zucchini, and chocolate chips creates a moist and flavorful bread that's perfect for any occasion. The cream cheese glaze adds a delightful touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and unique treat.

Donn Huntley

Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

How to prepare the loaf pans: Grease and flour two loaf pans and set them aside to prepare them for the batter.

How to combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder using a whisk until well mixed.

How to mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, oil, pumpkin, and sugar until well combined.

How to incorporate wet and dry ingredients: Add the pumpkin mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.

How to fold in zucchini and nuts or chocolate chips: Gently fold in the zucchini and nuts or chocolate chips into the batter until evenly distributed.

How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

How to make cream cheese glaze: Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together, then stir in the cream a little at a time until the glaze reaches the desired consistency.

How to pour glaze over cooled loaves: Once the loaves have cooled, pour the cream cheese glaze over the top of each loaf.

How To Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

This pumpkin zucchini bread is a good banana bread alternative. It’s full of warm fall flavors and is served with a delicate cream cheese glaze.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 28 minutes

Total: 48 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupsflour
1tspcinnamon
½tspsalt
1tspbaking soda
1tspbaking powder
3eggs
2cupswhite sugar
⅓cupvegetable oil
1cupcanned pumpkin,(not pumpkin pie filling)
2cupszucchini,(do not drain or squeeze), shredded
½cupwalnuts,optional
mini chocolate chips,optional

For Cream Cheese Glaze:

¼cupcream cheese,softened
4tbsppowdered sugar
4tbsplight cream

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour two loaf pans and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder with a whisk. In a separate bowl, mix eggs,oil, pumpkin and sugar.
Add pumpkin mixture to dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in zucchini and nuts or chocolate chips if using. Pour into prepared pans.
Place in the oven and reduce heat to 325 degrees F. Bake 40 to 50 minutes for a 9×5-inch pan and 45 to 55 minutes for an 8×4-inch pan or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool 20 minutes and remove from pans.

Cream Cheese Glaze:

Beat cream cheese & powdered sugar together. Stir in cream a little at a time until glaze reaches desired consistency. Pour over cooled loaves.

Nutrition

Calories: 550.36kcal
Fat: 16.48g
Saturated Fat: 4.12g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.42g
Carbohydrates: 94.26g
Fiber: 2.65g
Sugar: 56.25g
Protein: 8.22g
Cholesterol: 76.28mg
Sodium: 405.52mg
Calcium: 87.74mg
Potassium: 237.33mg
Iron: 1.53mg
Vitamin A: 314.67µg
Vitamin C: 6.90mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

When incorporating the zucchini into the batter, consider grating it for a more uniform texture. This will allow the zucchini to blend seamlessly into the bread, providing moisture and nutrients without altering the overall texture of the bread. Additionally, be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to the batter to prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.

Time-Saving Tips for This Zucchini Bread Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-bowl wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to mix all the ingredients in a single bowl to minimize cleanup.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and stand mixers to speed up prep and mixing.

Freeze for later: Make a double batch and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal or snack in the future.

Batch cooking: Cook large quantities of certain components, such as grains or proteins, to use in multiple recipes throughout the week.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and tools.

Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe

flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the bread, while still providing the necessary structure for baking.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the bread.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to oil, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness to the bread.
canned pumpkin - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree can be used as a similar substitute, providing a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor to the bread.
zucchini - Substitute with shredded carrots: Shredded carrots can provide a similar texture and moisture to the bread, along with a slightly sweeter flavor.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can be used as a substitute for walnuts, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the bread.
mini chocolate chips - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can add a sweet and tart flavor to the bread, providing a delicious contrast to the other ingredients.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture for the glaze.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener for the glaze, adding a rich and distinct flavor to complement the bread.
light cream - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used as a substitute for light cream, providing a similar creamy texture for the glaze.

Best Way to Present Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread, ensure that the plating is elegant and refined. Use edible flowers and chocolate shavings to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a contrast of textures by adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the moist and dense zucchini bread.
Create a visual focal point: Place a slice of the bread on a decorative plate and garnish with a drizzle of the cream cheese glaze, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a visually stunning centerpiece.
Utilize color contrast: Pair the warm tones of the pumpkin bread with vibrant fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to create a visually appealing contrast on the plate.
Incorporate artistic elements: Use a stencil to dust a pattern of cinnamon or cocoa powder onto the plate for an artistic touch that showcases attention to detail.

Essential Tools for Making This Zucchini Bread Recipe

oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
loaf pans: Used for baking bread and cakes in a loaf shape.
whisk: A utensil used for mixing ingredients together and incorporating air into the mixture.
mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or dough.
measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
electric mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
spatula: Used for scraping bowls, mixing ingredients, and spreading batters.
cooling rack: Used to cool baked goods and allow air to circulate around the food.
toothpick: Used to check the doneness of baked goods by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
whisk: A utensil used for mixing ingredients together and incorporating air into the mixture.
measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Allow the pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread to cool completely before storing. This will prevent moisture from building up and making the bread soggy.
Wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep the bread fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Store the wrapped loaves at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep the bread fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze the pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread, wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
Freeze the bread for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, remove the loaf from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
If you prefer, you can also slice the bread before freezing. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or separate them with parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily grab a slice or two whenever you want without having to thaw the entire loaf.
To reheat frozen pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread, wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave it for 20-30 seconds, or until it's warmed through. You can also reheat a whole loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through.

How to Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

To reheat leftover pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the chocolate chips are melted. This method will help restore the bread's moisture and freshness while keeping the crust crispy.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place a slice of the zucchini bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. If the bread isn't warm enough, microwave it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it may become soggy or rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your pumpkin bread. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of bread in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy. This method is perfect for those who love a crispy exterior and a soft, moist interior.
For a delightful twist, try toasting your leftover chocolate chip zucchini bread. Slice the bread and place it in a toaster or under the broiler for a minute or two, until it's lightly golden and crispy. The heat will melt the chocolate chips and create a delicious, caramelized flavor. Serve the toasted bread with a dollop of butter or cream cheese for an indulgent breakfast or snack.

Random Fact About Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

The pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread recipe is a delicious way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet. The combination of pumpkin, zucchini, and chocolate chips creates a moist and flavorful bread that is perfect for any time of the day. This recipe is a great way to use up any extra zucchinis you may have on hand and is a tasty treat for the whole family. Plus, the addition of the cream cheese glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish to the bread, making it even more irresistible. Enjoy this delightful dessert with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack.

Is Making This Zucchini Bread Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the use of canned pumpkin and zucchini makes it budget-friendly. The addition of walnuts and mini chocolate chips may slightly increase the cost, but they can be optional. The cream cheese glaze adds a touch of indulgence without significantly impacting the overall cost. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a reasonable and economical choice.

Is This Zucchini Bread Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it does have some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's nutritional profile:

The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar (2 cups), which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large quantities.
The use of all-purpose flour provides carbohydrates but lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
The recipe includes vegetable oil, which is high in calories and may contain unhealthy fats.
The cream cheese glaze adds additional sugar and fat to the bread, further increasing its calorie content.

On the positive side, the recipe incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients such as:

Pumpkin, which is high in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
Zucchini, a low-calorie vegetable that adds moisture and fiber to the bread.
Walnuts, which provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar by half or substitute a portion with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
Swap the vegetable oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil, olive oil, or unsweetened applesauce.
Omit the cream cheese glaze to reduce the overall sugar and fat content, or use a lighter version made with Greek yogurt.
Increase the amount of zucchini and pumpkin to boost the vegetable content and add more moisture, allowing for a reduction in oil.
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients like chia seeds, ground flaxseed, or dried fruits for added nutrition and flavor.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Zucchini Bread Recipe

The combination of pumpkin, zucchini, and chocolate chips in this bread recipe creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of cream cheese glaze adds a rich and creamy finish, elevating the overall experience. The recipe's instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The addition of walnuts provides a pleasant crunch, while the mini chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal produce into a delicious baked treat.

Enhance Your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and infused with aromatic thyme for a delightful side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Assorted vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.

Savory Herb Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with a blend of savory herbs for a comforting and flavorful side dish.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and vibrant quinoa salad with the perfect balance of tart cranberries and zesty orange flavors.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Zucchini Bread

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Combine ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender and juicy.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Mix diced mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful salsa to serve with grilled fish or chicken.

Butternut Squash Soup: Simmer butternut squash, onions, carrots, and vegetable broth until tender, then blend until smooth and creamy for a comforting fall soup.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Layer a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy lemon cheesecake filling and swirl in fresh blueberries for a delightful dessert bar.

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: Stuff jumbo pasta shells with a mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, and spinach, then bake in a creamy Alfredo sauce for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement This Zucchini Bread Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. This classic appetizer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: For a light and flavorful main course, consider grilling salmon with a zesty lemon and herb marinade. The smoky char from the grill adds depth to the fish's natural richness, while the bright citrus and herb flavors provide a refreshing contrast. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: A beef stir fry is a quick and versatile main course that can be customized with your choice of vegetables and seasonings. Sear thinly sliced beef in a hot wok or skillet, then toss with a colorful array of bell peppers, snap peas, and water chestnuts. The key to a successful stir fry is to keep the ingredients crisp and vibrant, so be sure not to overcook them. Finish with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, and serve over steamed rice for a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Why trust this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful fusion of pumpkin, zucchini, and chocolate chips, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The combination of canned pumpkin and fresh zucchini ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the addition of walnuts and mini chocolate chips provides a delightful crunch and bursts of sweetness. The cream cheese glaze, made with cream cheese and powdered sugar, adds a luscious finish. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to deliver a delectable treat that will surely impress your taste buds.

Want to discuss this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread recipe further? Head over to the Baking and Desserts forum section and share your thoughts, tips, and experiences with fellow baking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin. Simply roast or boil the fresh pumpkin until it's soft, then puree it until smooth before using it in the recipe.

Can I omit the cream cheese glaze?

Absolutely! The cream cheese glaze is optional. The bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds a nice touch of sweetness and creaminess.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, canola oil, or even melted butter for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients, such as the baking powder and chocolate chips, are also gluten-free.

Can I freeze the pumpkin chocolate chip zucchini bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.