Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious way to sneak in some veggies, then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is just the ticket! This recipe has become a favorite in my home—not only because it’s easy to whip up, but also because it’s an absolute hit with everyone who tries it. The rich flavors of peanut butter and melty chocolate chips create a delightful treat that can brighten up any busy weeknight or family gathering. Trust me, nobody will guess there’s zucchini hiding in there!

This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Plus, like banana bread, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. So if you find yourself with some extra zucchini (or just want to use up what you have), this recipe will certainly not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat. It’s a fantastic way to introduce some vegetables into their diet without them even knowing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a loaf on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It stays fresh for days!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is simply irresistible and comforting.
• Versatile Base: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this scrumptious bread. Most of these items are staples you might already have in your pantry!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 and 2/3 cups (208g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter (processed or natural)
• 2/3 cup (133g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (113g) honey
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (any kind), at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-Ins

• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) shredded zucchini (no need to blot)
• 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Switch Up the Sweetener: Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
• Make Muffins: Use the same batter to create muffins! Just adjust your baking time accordingly.
• Try Different Mix-ins: Experiment with other add-ins like dried fruit or coconut flakes for a twist.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Greasing your 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray will ensure that your bread slides out easily once baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout the flour, giving the bread a nice rise.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, peanut butter, brown sugar, honey, eggs, milk, and vanilla until fully combined. Pour these wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently stir until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread!

Step 4: Fold In Zucchini & Chocolate Chips

With a silicone spatula, fold in the shredded zucchini and chocolate chips. The batter will be thick but that’s perfectly normal!

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 55–70 minutes. If you notice that the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for an hour before removing it from the pan. For neat slices—if you can wait—let it cool completely on the rack before slicing.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your home as well.

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Baking is all about having fun in the kitchen, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini will have the best moisture content and flavor, which is crucial for keeping your bread tender and delicious. Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis for the best results.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mixing the batter until just combined helps to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid here!
• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely before slicing will help it hold its shape better. This way, you’ll get those picture-perfect slices ready for serving or storing.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your bread! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins can introduce a pleasant sweetness.
• Store Properly: To keep your bread fresh longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also wrap individual slices and freeze them for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread isn’t just a treat on its own; it’s versatile enough to be dressed up for any occasion! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, here are some delightful ways to present it.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling chopped nuts on top adds texture and visual appeal, making each slice not only delicious but also inviting.
• Dollop of Nut Butter: A small dollop of peanut butter on top of each slice creates a creamy contrast that enhances the peanut flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the top makes it look extra decadent and adds an additional layer of chocolaty goodness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bread. Think berries, banana slices, or even citrus segments.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit alongside your bread for a delightful breakfast or snack option that’s filling yet refreshing.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea pairs beautifully with this sweet loaf. Chamomile or peppermint can provide a soothing complement to the rich flavors.
• Ice Cream Scoop: For dessert lovers, serving a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist!

Enjoy exploring these serving suggestions with your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! It’s a delightful treat that can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Always allow the bread to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, use a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For the whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy warm with a pat of your favorite spread if desired!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread!

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter in this recipe?

Absolutely! Almond butter is a great alternative and will give your zucchini bread a slightly different flavor while still keeping it delicious.

How do I make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread healthier?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar by using less honey. You could also add nuts or seeds for extra nutrition!

Is Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread suitable for freezing?

Yes! This bread freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping and storing it in an airtight container.

Can I turn this recipe into muffins?

Definitely! Pour the batter into a lined muffin tin instead of a loaf pan. Bake at the same temperature for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! It’s such a unique way to enjoy vegetables, and I promise you’ll love every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it yourself, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to any day. Enjoy baking, and don’t hesitate to come back and share how it turned out!