Chocolate chip zucchini bread is the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and decadent chocolate. This recipe brings together the moistness of zucchini with the irresistible taste of chocolate chips, creating a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy, one-bowl recipe will yield two delicious loaves of bread that will make your kitchen smell like heaven. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up excess zucchini during the summer months!
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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
This chocolate chip zucchini bread is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also turns out super moist every time. The zucchini adds a natural tenderness to the bread, making it a perfect treat to pair with your morning coffee or enjoy as a midday snack. What sets this recipe apart is the addition of mini chocolate chips, which ensure that every bite is full of melty chocolate goodness.
Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to make this moist and delicious chocolate chip zucchini bread:
• Grated Zucchini: Adds moisture and texture to the bread. There’s no need to peel it, making the recipe even easier.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread while allowing the flavors to shine.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract: A must for enhancing the overall flavor.
• Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the bread and gives it structure.
• Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and gives it that light texture.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spiced note that complements the chocolate and zucchini.
• Mini Semisweet Chocolate Chips: The star of the show! These melt beautifully into the bread, creating pockets of chocolate throughout.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking to make this recipe more suited to dietary preferences, here are some ingredient swaps:
• Gluten-Free Flour: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make the bread gluten-free.
• Vegan Butter: For a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter substitute and replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
• Banana: Want to add extra flavor? Incorporate half a mashed banana for a subtle fruity sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
Making this chocolate chip zucchini bread is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps:
- Prep the Zucchini: Start by grating 3-4 medium zucchinis. Place them in a colander to drain while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Remember, don’t squeeze out the moisture—the zucchini’s water content is essential to keeping the bread moist.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 2 eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¾ cup of melted butter. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet ingredients, add 3 cups of properly measured all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir gently until just combined. The batter will be thick and dense at this point.
- Incorporate Zucchini and Chocolate Chips: Stir in the grated zucchini until it’s fully incorporated. Then, add 1 ½ cups of mini chocolate chips and mix them in gently.
- Prepare the Pans: Divide the batter evenly between two greased 8×4-inch loaf pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
• Don’t Squeeze the Zucchini: Let the zucchini sit in the colander to drain. Squeezing it dry will lead to a dense and dry loaf. The moisture from the zucchini is key to achieving that perfect, moist texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough loaf, so use a gentle hand.
• Tent with Foil: If the bread is getting too brown on top before it’s fully baked, loosely tent the pan with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Chocolate chip zucchini bread pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:
• Spread: Top your slice of zucchini bread with peanut butter, almond butter, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Side Dishes: Serve the bread with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a cup of tea for a comforting snack.
• Make-Ahead Option: This bread can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well—wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits and Seasonal Notes
Zucchini is a great source of vitamins and fiber, making this chocolate chip zucchini bread a slightly healthier option compared to other sweet breads. During the summer months, when zucchinis are in abundance, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up extra vegetables while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this chocolate chip zucchini bread is the perfect blend of moist, flavorful bread with just the right amount of chocolate indulgence. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re using it as a snack, breakfast treat, or dessert, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. The addition of zucchini keeps the bread moist and light, while the mini chocolate chips elevate it to a sweet, decadent delight. Try it out today and enjoy a homemade treat that brings warmth and comfort to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to peel the zucchini for chocolate chip zucchini bread?
No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. In fact, leaving the skin on helps maintain the moisture and texture of the bread. Just make sure to grate it and let it drain in a colander to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular-sized chocolate chips if you prefer. However, mini chocolate chips tend to distribute more evenly throughout the bread. If you use regular chips, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Can I freeze chocolate chip zucchini bread?
Absolutely! This zucchini bread freezes wonderfully. Once cooled, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat it up in the oven.
How can I make chocolate chip zucchini bread gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose contains xanthan gum or another binder to help the bread hold its shape and texture. You may need to experiment with slight adjustments in the baking time or moisture content depending on the flour blend you use.
More Relevant Recipes
Here are some other delicious recipes that pair perfectly with Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread or provide a similar comfort food experience:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – A moist and sweet banana bread packed with chocolate chips for an irresistible flavor.
- Moist Pineapple Banana Bread – A tropical twist on traditional banana bread, featuring the juicy flavor of pineapple.
- Old Fashioned Banana Bread – A classic banana bread recipe that’s rich, moist, and full of nostalgia.
These recipes will give you more ways to enjoy a comforting, homemade treat!
Print
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This chocolate chip zucchini bread is a moist, flavorful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of zucchini with the indulgent sweetness of chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this easy one-bowl recipe guarantees delicious results every time.
Ingredients
- 3 cups grated fresh zucchini (about 3-4 medium zucchinis)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, properly measured
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups mini semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans.
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander to drain while you prepare the other ingredients.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
- Add the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Stir just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Stir in the grated zucchini and chocolate chips until just incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake for 40-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- Don’t squeeze out the moisture from the zucchini—this will help keep the bread moist.
- Mix the batter by hand to avoid overmixing and a tough loaf.
- If your bread gets too brown on top before it’s fully baked, tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-60 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 188
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 131mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 22mg