Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines wholesome ingredients with a deliciously sweet twist, then this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is just for you! This recipe is a beloved favorite in my kitchen because it cleverly incorporates zucchini, making it a sneaky way to add some veggies into our diets. Trust me, no one will ever guess there’s a green vegetable hiding in this moist and flavorful quick bread! It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even as an afternoon snack with coffee.

The best part? This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread gets even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just imagine slicing into a warm piece of bread, where the gooey chocolate chips melt in your mouth, and the nutty peanut butter flavor shines through. It’s a cozy experience that you’ll want to revisit time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of any skill level.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, making it an instant hit at home.
• Make-ahead option: Bake it on the weekend and enjoy slices throughout the week; it stays fresh and tasty!
• Deliciously unique: The addition of zucchini keeps this bread moist while adding nutrients without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Each element brings something special to this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread, creating a tasty treat that’s hard to resist!

For the Bread

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

Variations

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
• Swap the sweetener: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
• Make muffins: Transform this loaf into delicious muffins by adjusting the baking time. Just keep an eye on them as they bake!

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the moment you put it in. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray so your bread slides out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure that everything is evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Fold in Zucchini & Chocolate Chips

Using a silicone spatula, gently fold in shredded zucchini and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step adds moisture and sweetness while keeping your batter slightly thick.

Step 5: Bake Your Loaf

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 55–70 minutes. To prevent over-browning on top, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through. Your bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with only a few small moist crumbs clinging to it.

Step 6: Cool & Enjoy

Remove your freshly baked bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about an hour before removing it from the pan. While you can slice into it right away, waiting until it’s completely cooled will ensure neat slices.

Cover your bread to store at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate it for up to one week. I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for another slice—especially since this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread tastes even better on day two!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Baking is all about the little details, and these pro tips will help you create a deliciously moist and flavorful zucchini bread that everyone will love!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini adds moisture and flavor to your bread. Look for firm, vibrant green zucchini for the best results.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that rises beautifully in the oven.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of the light texture we want.

• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This prevents it from crumbling and ensures clean cuts.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits according to your taste. They can add texture and additional flavors to your zucchini bread!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Serving this delightful bread can be as creative as you like! Whether as a cozy breakfast option or a sweet afternoon treat, here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Honey: A light drizzle of honey on top adds an extra touch of sweetness that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
• Sliced Bananas: Fresh banana slices on top not only look appealing but also enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt alongside a slice provides a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries for a burst of freshness and color.
• Nut Butter Dip: Create a nut butter dip using almond or cashew butter for dipping slices into—a fun way to enjoy this treat!
• Herbal Tea: Pair your zucchini bread with a warm cup of herbal tea for a comforting afternoon snack that soothes the soul.

With these serving ideas, you’ll have your friends and family raving about your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well, so you can enjoy it throughout the week or even share some with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can toast slices in a toaster or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful bread.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter in Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread?

Yes, almond butter works great as a substitute! Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture and taste will remain lovely!

Can I turn this into muffins instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

How do I know when my Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with only a few small moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with hidden goodness that your loved ones will appreciate. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers on day two, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!