Zucchini Bread Bliss: A Homemade Delight That Will Leave You Craving More
There's something magical about the aroma of freshly baked zucchini bread wafting through the house.
When my husband texted me from work, craving a taste of this delectable treat, I couldn't resist the urge to whip up a batch. In this article, I'll share with you a delightful recipe for zucchini bread that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. And as the lids on the jars of freshly baked bread start popping, you'll know that a scrumptious homemade treat is ready to be enjoyed.
Recipe: Homemade Zucchini Bread
Ingredients:
- - 3 cups all-purpose flour
- - 1 teaspoon baking soda
- - 1 teaspoon baking powder
- - 1 teaspoon salt
- - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- - 3 eggs
- - 1 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 cup packed brown sugar
- - 1 cup vegetable oil
- - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- - 2 cups grated zucchini
- - 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
- - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two standard-sized loaf pans or prepare equivalent-sized canning jars for canning.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients:
- - In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
3. Beat the eggs and sugars:
- - In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the sugars are dissolved.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
- - Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as it may result in a denser texture. The batter will be thick.
5. Add the zucchini and nuts:
- - Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using). The zucchini adds moisture and a hint of freshness, while the nuts add a delightful crunch.
6. Bake the bread:
- - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pans or canning jars, filling them about two- thirds full. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- - Place the pans or jars in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the pans or jars used.
7. Cool and store:
- - Once baked, remove the zucchini bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans or jars for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Canning the zucchini bread:
- - If you prefer to can the zucchini bread for long-term storage, ensure that the canning jars are properly sterilized. While the bread is still warm, carefully transfer it to the canning jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, seal them with the lids and rings, and process them in a water bath canner for the recommended time based on your altitude.
Zucchini bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year. By following this simple recipe, you can create a moist and flavorful bread that will satisfy your cravings and make your taste buds sing. Whether you choose to enjoy it fresh from the oven or can it for long-term storage, the lids popping on the jars will be a testament to the deliciousness that awaits. So, indulge in the irresistible allure of homemade zucchini bread and savor each delicious bite.
Comments
The jars cooked ok in the oven, but floated in the final water bath . So I weighed the jars and they filled with water during the water bath. Suggestions?
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