Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread: Perfectly Spiced, Oh-So-Moist, and Pure Nostalgia!
Hey there, Jason Griffith here! As we move through the summer of 2025, if you’re a home gardener (or just a fan of fresh produce!), you know that zucchini season often brings an abundance of this versatile squash. And there’s no better way to enjoy it than in a classic, perfectly spiced loaf of Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread. This recipe is the epitome of comfort baking – moist, flavorful, and filled with warm spices, crunchy pecans, and sweet raisins. It’s a delicious way to whisk up some nostalgia and enjoy a wholesome treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge advocate for recipes that combine simple ingredients to create truly memorable flavors, and this Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread does exactly that. What I particularly love about it is its incredible moistness, thanks to the grated zucchini (which you can’t even taste!). The blend of cinnamon and other spices fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma as it bakes, and the addition of crunchy pecans and chewy raisins provides a fantastic textural contrast. It’s a truly comforting bake that’s perfect for breakfast, a coffee break, or a simple dessert. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that extra zucchini!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightfully moist and flavorful Zucchini Bread:
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 cups zucchini, grated (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup raisins
Swaps and Notes
- Zucchini: Use medium-sized zucchini. After grating, it’s crucial to gently squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Oil: Vegetable or canola oil keeps the bread wonderfully moist.
- Spices: Three teaspoons of cinnamon is what gives this bread its signature warm, inviting flavor. You could add a tiny pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra depth if desired.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans add a lovely crunch. Walnuts can be substituted, or you can omit nuts entirely if there are allergies. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them can enhance their flavor.
- Raisins: Raisins add a classic sweetness and chewiness. Dried cranberries or chocolate chips could be used for a different twist.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract will give the best flavor.
Directions
Making this Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is a straightforward baking process that will fill your kitchen with a sweet aroma!
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a bundt pan. If you have non-stick spray, that works wonders too for easy release! (Alternatively, you can use two standard loaf pans.)
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium-low speed until the mixture is well blended and slightly lightened in color.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon to the wet mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until everything is just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Zucchini & Vanilla: Take your grated zucchini and gently squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean towel. Then, fold the squeezed zucchini into the batter along with the vanilla extract, mixing gently until just incorporated.
- Stir in Nuts & Raisins: Grab a spatula and carefully stir in the raisins and chopped pecans by hand. This ensures they are evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
- Pour & Bake: Pour that beautifully mixed batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The bread is done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). Baking time can vary depending on your oven and pan type.
- Cool & Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy the sweet aroma that’ll fill your kitchen and the fantastic taste of this homemade zucchini bread!
Tips for Success
- Squeeze Zucchini Dry: This is the most crucial step! Excess moisture from the zucchini will make your bread soggy. Squeeze it out thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tough, dry bread. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs blend more smoothly into the batter when at room temperature.
- Grease and Flour Well: For a bundt pan, this step is essential for easy release and a beautiful shape.
- Test for Doneness: The toothpick test is reliable for ensuring the bread is cooked through without drying it out.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is perfect on its own for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea, a delightful afternoon snack, or a simple dessert. It’s also wonderful toasted with a pat of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey. It makes a thoughtful homemade gift or a great addition to a brunch spread. For other comforting baked goods, you might also enjoy my This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas or my These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover muffins can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake maintains its moisture well. You can also freeze the bread. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you loved the moist texture and comforting flavors of this bread, here are a few more delightful dessert recipes that I think you’ll absolutely love:
- For another fantastic fall-inspired baked good, check out my These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat.
- If you’re a fan of rich and indulgent treats, you’ll adore my These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession.
- And for a truly classic, crowd-pleasing dessert that feeds a big family, don’t miss my This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd.
- For a decadent chocolate and peanut butter treat, my The Best Peanut Butter Brownies I’ve Ever Made (And I’ve Made a Lot!) are a must-try.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread is a true testament to the simple joys of home baking. It’s incredibly moist, perfectly spiced, and a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome treat that feels like a hug. Give it a bake, and let the fantastic taste of this homemade zucchini bread fill your kitchen with sweet aromas!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy a quick bread? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delightful and inspiring recipes!
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