Apple Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

3. Combine Sugar and Oil: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oiluntil smooth and well combined.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Add the Fruits and Vegetables

5. Grate and Squeeze Zucchini: Grate the zucchini, then place it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out any excess moisture. This helps keep the bread from becoming too soggy.
6. Grate Apple: Grate the apple (no need to squeeze out moisture) and add both the zucchini and apple to the wet mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

7. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
8. Add Optional Mix-Ins: Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins or dried cranberries if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

9. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
10. Bake: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

11. Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip Squeezing the Zucchini: This step is key for a balanced moisture level.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring a deeper warmth to the bread.
• Add a Crunchy Topping (Optional): Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar or chopped nuts on top of the batter before baking for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Plain or with Butter: Enjoy a slice as is or with a pat of butter for added richness.
• Top with Cream Cheese or Yogurt: Spread cream cheese or Greek yogurt on each slice for a tangy, creamy contrast.

Storing Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: This bread can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast before serving.

Conclusion

This Apple Zucchini Bread is a wonderful way to use up extra produce and satisfy your sweet tooth in a balanced, wholesome way. It’s easy to make, full of cozy flavors, and perfect for any time of the day. Enjoy every slice!