Ideal for breakfast or a midday snack, this Zucchini Almond Bread is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The added crunch from the almonds and the unique infusion of pineapple give this classic zucchini bread a twist. It's moist, fluffy, and packed with nutrients, making it a healthier alternative to regular bread.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common in households. However, if you don't have almonds, you can find them in the nut section of any supermarket. Zucchinis are a popular summer squash and are typically located in the produce section. The addition of pineapple, whether canned or fresh, may not be as common for bread recipes, but they can easily be found in the canned fruit aisle or the fresh fruit section.
Zucchini Almond Bread Ingredients
Pineapple: Adds a tropical twist and natural sweetness to the bread.
Eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds moisture.
Vegetable oil: Adds moistness and helps with the texture of the bread.
Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the bread.
Brown sugar: Adds depth and richness to the flavor.
Zucchini: Gives the bread a moist texture and provides additional nutrients.
Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
Flour: The base of the bread.
Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
Cinnamon: Adds a warming spice flavor.
Nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with its warm and sweet flavor.
Almond: Adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
Vanilla (for glaze): Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
Powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
Milk (for glaze): Thins out the glaze to the right consistency.
One reader, Issi Trombley says:
This zucchini almond bread recipe is a game-changer! The combination of zucchini and almonds creates a delightful texture, and the glaze adds a perfect touch of sweetness. It's a hit with my family and friends. I love how easy it is to make, and it's a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Key Techniques for Zucchini Almond Bread Recipe
How to prepare the bread mixture: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth, ensuring the zucchini and pineapple are evenly distributed.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
How to make the glaze: Mix the vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps in the glaze.
How To Make Zucchini Almond Bread
Sink your teeth into this moist zucchini almond bread, loaded with spices, sweet pineapples and zucchini, for a rich and tasteful snack!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Bread:
- 8ozpineapple,(1 can), with juice, crushed
- 3eggs
- 1cupvegetable oil,or oil of choice
- 1cupsugar
- 1cupbrown sugar
- 2cupszucchini,grated
- 3tspvanilla
- 3cupsflour
- 1tspsalt
- 1tspbaking soda
- 3tspcinnamon
- ½tspnutmeg
- 1cupalmond,chopped, plus thinly sliced for optional topping
For Glaze:
- ¼tbspvanilla
- ½cuppowdered sugar
- 1tbspmilk
Instructions
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Mix the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped almonds in a bowl, and set aside.
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Preheat the oven at 350 degrees F.
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In another bowl, combine the pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, brown sugar, zucchini, and vanilla, and mix well.
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Pour the dry ingredients gradually into the wet ingredients bowl, and mix them until smooth.
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Spray the baking pan and pour in the mixture, then top with sliced almonds.
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Bake for about 60 minutes. Times may vary depending on the oven. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
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While baking, mix the vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk together until smooth.
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Let the bread cool down, drizzle with the glaze.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1025.23kcal
- Fat: 52.23g
- Saturated Fat: 4.24g
- Trans Fat: 0.30g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 35.28g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.05g
- Carbohydrates: 127.83g
- Fiber: 6.34g
- Sugar: 73.03g
- Protein: 15.07g
- Cholesterol: 80.23mg
- Sodium: 641.82mg
- Calcium: 134.26mg
- Potassium: 466.87mg
- Iron: 2.57mg
- Vitamin A: 41.02µg
- Vitamin C: 25.52mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Zucchini Almond Bread
When grating the zucchini, there's no need to peel it first. The skin adds extra nutrients and color to your bread. Also, to ensure your bread doesn't end up soggy, after grating the zucchini, squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or a cheesecloth. This will give your bread the perfect texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Zucchini Almond Bread
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.
Efficient tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up the prep work.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze the extras for quick and convenient meals later.
Time-saving ingredients: Utilize canned or pre-cut vegetables and fruits to cut down on prep time.
Plan meals: Create a weekly meal plan and grocery list to save time and minimize food waste.
Multi-task: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.
Leftovers makeover: Repurpose leftovers into new dishes to save time on meal preparation.
Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini Almond Bread Recipe
zucchini - Substitute with carrots: Carrots can be used as a substitute for zucchini in bread recipes as they have a similar texture and mild flavor. Grated carrots will add moisture and sweetness to the bread, just like zucchini.
almond - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute for almonds in this recipe. They provide a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, complementing the other ingredients in the bread.
How to Beautifully Present Zucchini Almond Bread
Elevate the plating: When presenting the zucchini almond bread, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Incorporate texture: Add a contrast of textures to the plate by incorporating a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the moist and nutty zucchini almond bread.
Artful drizzling: Instead of simply drizzling the glaze over the bread, consider using a squeeze bottle to create artistic and precise lines on the plate, adding a touch of finesse to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the zucchini almond bread to be the focal point. Arrange the elements with care, leaving areas of the plate intentionally bare to create a visually striking presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the plate for a delicate finishing touch, adding a hint of sweetness and a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Zucchini Almond Bread
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently processing the zucchini and almonds for the bread recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients. It's used for mixing the dry and wet ingredients together to create the bread batter.
Baking pan: A baking pan is used to hold the bread batter and to bake the zucchini almond bread in the oven.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure and portion the ingredients for the zucchini almond bread recipe.
Whisk: A whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients together, ensuring a smooth and uniform batter for the zucchini almond bread.
Spatula: A spatula is used for scraping the sides of the mixing bowl and transferring the bread batter into the baking pan.
Oven: An oven is used for baking the zucchini almond bread at the specified temperature until it's fully cooked and golden brown.
Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to allow the zucchini almond bread to cool down evenly after it's been baked.
Knife: A knife is used for chopping the almonds and preparing the zucchini for the bread recipe.
Measuring scale: A measuring scale is used to accurately weigh ingredients, especially when precise measurements are required for baking.
Storing and Freezing Zucchini Almond Bread
Let the zucchini almond bread cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the bread soggy.
To store the bread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, place the bread in an airtight container. It will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the wrapped or containerized zucchini almond bread for up to a week. The refrigerator may dry out the bread slightly, so it's best to bring it to room temperature before serving.
To freeze the bread, follow these steps:
- Slice the bread into desired portions, or leave it whole if preferred.
- Wrap each slice or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, making sure no air pockets remain.
- Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the zucchini almond bread for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen zucchini almond bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. If you've frozen individual slices, you can also reheat them directly in the toaster or microwave for a quick treat.
If you find the bread has dried out slightly after storing or freezing, you can refresh it by warming it in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes.
The Best Ways to Reheat Zucchini Almond Bread
To reheat leftover zucchini almond 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 exterior is slightly crispy. This method helps to restore the bread's texture and freshness.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Slice the zucchini almond bread into individual portions and place them on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is quick and convenient, especially if you're only reheating a small amount of bread.
For a softer, more moist reheating method, wrap the zucchini almond bread in a damp paper towel and microwave it on high for 20-30 seconds. Check the bread and microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds if needed. This method is best for those who prefer a softer texture, but be careful not to overheat the bread, as it may become soggy.
If you have a bit more time, consider using a steamer basket to reheat your leftover zucchini almond bread. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the bread in a steamer basket above the water, cover the pot, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is heated through. This method helps to maintain the bread's moisture and softness.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, try pan-toasting your leftover zucchini almond bread. Melt a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bread slices and toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. This method adds a delightful buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch to your reheated bread.
Interesting Fact About Zucchini Almond Bread
The zucchini almond bread recipe is a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into a sweet treat. Zucchini adds moisture and a subtle flavor to the bread, making it a healthier option for those with a sweet tooth. Additionally, almonds provide a crunchy texture and nutty taste, enhancing the overall experience. This recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Is Making Zucchini Almond Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This zucchini almond bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Zucchinis are affordable and readily available, making this recipe budget-friendly. The addition of almonds provides a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and oil, the overall cost is reasonable. The versatility of this bread makes it suitable for various occasions, adding value to the investment. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe rates a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it an economical choice for a delightful treat.
Is Zucchini Almond Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
The zucchini almond bread recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- High sugar content: The recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of brown sugar, which is a significant amount of added sugars.
- Refined flour: The recipe uses 3 cups of all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate lacking in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- High oil content: 1 cup of vegetable oil contributes to the high calorie and fat content of the bread.
- Lack of nutrient-dense ingredients: While zucchini and almonds offer some nutritional benefits, they are overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the sugar content by half and experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates.
- Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, oat flour, or almond flour to increase fiber and nutrient content.
- Substitute half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to reduce the fat content and add moisture.
- Increase the amount of zucchini to 3 cups for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Add more nutrient-dense ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, or walnuts for healthy fats and fiber.
- Experiment with reducing the glaze or using a healthier alternative, such as a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious zucchini almond bread while still enjoying its delightful taste and texture.
Editor's Opinion on This Zucchini Almond Bread Recipe
This zucchini almond bread recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of zucchini adds moisture and a subtle earthy flavor, while the almonds provide a lovely crunch. The addition of pineapple lends a hint of sweetness, and the glaze adds a perfect finishing touch. The recipe's balance of ingredients and the incorporation of aromatic spices create a harmonious blend that is sure to please the palate. It's a wonderful treat for any occasion, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible.
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Why trust this Zucchini Almond Bread Recipe:
This zucchini almond bread recipe is a delightful combination of pineapple, zucchini, and almonds, creating a moist and flavorful bread. The use of fresh ingredients ensures a wholesome and delicious outcome. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. The inclusion of a vanilla glaze further enhances the overall taste experience. Trust in the balance of flavors and the expertise behind this recipe to create a delightful treat for any occasion.
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