Zucchini Bread

Moist, lightly spiced, and dotted with a generous cup of chocolate chips, this loaf strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. The zucchini keeps the bread incredibly tender while quietly adding a serving of vegetables that even picky eaters happily enjoy.

My grandchildren don't ask for a second slice because it's made with zucchini—they ask because every bite is filled with melty chocolate chips. The fact that they're eating vegetables at the same time is simply a bonus. Paired with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this comforting loaf has a way of bringing everyone back to the kitchen for "just one more slice."

Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that nourish our loved ones without them even realizing it. I hope this zucchini bread becomes a favorite in your home, too. Enjoy!

Ingredients

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1/3 cup almond milk

1 Tbsp. flax meal

1 cup brown sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup zucchini, grated

1 1/2 cups flour

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. salt

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or spray pan with canola oil.

In a large bowl, add the oil, almond milk, flax meal, brown sugar, and vanilla. Whisk well until thoroughly combined.

Lightly blot the grated zucchini with paper towels and add to the bowl. Stir the zucchini into the wet ingredients.

Add the flour to the wet ingredients and sprinkle the baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon on top of the flour. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to over mix, or the zucchini loaf may be dense.

Fold in walnuts and/or chocolate chips, if using. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As an alternate, the batter can be scooped into muffin tins lined with parchment or cupcake liners. Do not over bake as the bread or muffins will be dry.