Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread – Moist and Easy

This cinnamon swirl zucchini bread is moist, flavorful, and simple to make. Perfect for breakfast or snacks, try this easy zucchini bread recipe today.

Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use fresh zucchini, this cinnamon swirl zucchini bread is the answer. It’s moist, tender, and filled with warm cinnamon flavor that’s perfect any time of day. This easy zucchini bread recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and fresh grated zucchini to create a beautifully spiced loaf that your family will love.

Why You’ll Love It

This zucchini bread is a fantastic way to sneak veggies into your baking while satisfying your sweet tooth. The cinnamon swirl adds an irresistible touch of spice and sweetness that stands out from basic zucchini breads. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires no fancy equipment.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sub with gluten-free flour blend if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (can reduce sugar for less sweetness)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the cinnamon swirl: 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Mix in oil and vanilla extract, then fold in the grated zucchini.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined to avoid toughness.
6. Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over it.
7. Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar, then top with the remaining cinnamon sugar.
8. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter.
9. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Expert Tips

Grate the zucchini finely and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel to prevent soggy bread. For the best swirl effect, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar in layers rather than mixing it into the batter. Test doneness with a toothpick at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or another neutral oil instead of butter or vegetable oil.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Substitute sugars with coconut sugar or date syrup, adjusting sweetness to taste.

FAQ

Can I freeze zucchini bread?

Yes, zucchini bread freezes very well when wrapped tightly. Thaw completely before serving.

How much zucchini do I need for this recipe?

You’ll need about 2 cups of grated zucchini, which is roughly one medium zucchini.

Is this cinnamon swirl zucchini bread healthy?

While it includes nutritious zucchini, it’s still a sweet bread with sugar and oil. Enjoy in moderation as a treat.

Can I make zucchini bread without a cinnamon swirl?

Absolutely! You can skip the cinnamon swirl and simply mix cinnamon into the batter for a more uniform flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover zucchini bread?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

How do I make perfect zucchini bread every time?

Don’t overmix the batter and remove excess moisture from zucchini to keep the bread moist but not soggy.

Give this cinnamon swirl zucchini bread a try, and don’t forget to comment below to share your baking success! Save this recipe for easy access and share with friends who love homemade breads.