I absolutely love this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe because it combines two of my favorite things: rich, fudgy chocolate and the hidden goodness of zucchini. It’s one of those recipes that feels decadent yet sneaky healthy, making it an all-around winner for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whenever I bake this loaf, my kitchen fills with the warm aroma of cocoa, and I can’t wait for a slice to come out of the oven.

You’ll find that this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe is forgiving and comes together easily, even if you’re new to baking. The shredded zucchini keeps the bread wonderfully moist without weighing it down, and the chocolate chips add bursts of melty sweetness that my family goes crazy for. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to be your go-to quick bread for zucchini season or any time you want a comforting, chocolaty treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist and Flavorful: The shredded zucchini adds natural moisture, keeping the bread soft and tender.
  • Rich Chocolate Experience: With cocoa powder, espresso powder, and chocolate chips, the chocolate flavor is deep and satisfying.
  • Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe beginner-friendly.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as bread, muffins, or cupcakes – the batter works beautifully for all.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe come together harmoniously to create that perfect balance of chocolatey richness and subtle veggie sweetness. When you shop, look for fresh zucchini and natural unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the flavors authentic and bright.

  • All-purpose flour: Use spooned and leveled flour for accurate measurement and great texture.
  • Unsweetened natural cocoa powder: This gives the true chocolate taste – skip Dutch-process here for best results.
  • Baking soda and baking powder: Helps the bread rise with a light crumb.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • Espresso powder: Adds depth to the chocolate without tasting like coffee; optional but recommended.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These melt into delicious pockets of chocolate – don’t leave them out!
  • Eggs: They bind the ingredients and add richness.
  • Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
  • Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds moisture and slight tang; Greek yogurt is my go-to for its creaminess.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just right.
  • Pure vanilla extract: Boosts flavor and aroma.
  • Shredded zucchini: No need to blot the moisture – it’s the secret to that soft crumb.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love mixing things up with this recipe depending on my mood or what I have in my pantry. Don’t hesitate to make this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe your own by trying different add-ins or tweaks to the base.

  • Nutty Twist: I like adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that pairs effortlessly with the chocolate.
  • Spicy Kick: Cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne can add a subtle warm heat that makes each bite more exciting.
  • Sweet Swap: Swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar or brown sugar for different flavor nuances.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Try a gluten-free flour blend to make this indulgence friendly for wheat-free diets.

How to Make Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) — this gives you a perfect temperature for baking the bread evenly. Grease a 9×5-inch or 8×4-inch loaf pan well with nonstick spray to ensure your bread releases easily. I usually lean towards the 8×4-inch pan when I want a taller loaf, but both work beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips

In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder together until everything’s evenly mixed. Then, stir in the chocolate chips. This step is crucial because it spreads the chocolatey goodness evenly throughout the bread.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. This blend brings moisture, richness, and sweetness, so be sure everything is well combined before adding to the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients, Then Fold in Zucchini

Slowly pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently whisking to combine — you want a thick, fudgy batter. Finally, fold in the shredded zucchini using a spatula. Don’t worry if the batter feels dense; that’s exactly how it should be for a moist bread.

Step 5: Bake and Watch Carefully

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45–55 minutes but keep a close eye. Around the 25-minute mark, loosely cover the top with foil to stop over-browning. Use a toothpick test starting at 45 minutes – it’s done when the toothpick comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. I’ve learned that all ovens bake a little differently, so check early to avoid overbaking.

Step 6: Cool and Optional Extra Chocolate Chips

After baking, let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for about an hour. While still warm, I like pressing a few extra chocolate chips on top—it looks pretty and adds a little chocolate pop with every slice. Then, remove the bread from the pan to cool completely before slicing.

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Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

  • Don’t Shred Too Finely: I found that shredding zucchini a bit coarser preserves moisture better and adds nice texture to each bite.
  • Use Espresso Powder: This little ingredient amps up the chocolate flavor dramatically without tasting like coffee – a game-changer!
  • Watch the Oven: Baking times vary, so check early to avoid drying out your bread; the foil cover helps keep it moist and prevents over-browning.
  • Don’t Skip the Chocolate Chips: They melt into delicious pockets inside and make the bread feel more indulgent—my family insists on them every time.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

A dark chocolate loaf cake with a rich and moist texture is shown on a wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. The loaf is partially sliced, revealing two thick, even slices in the front, both filled with melty dark chocolate chips scattered throughout the dense, soft crumb. The top layer of the loaf is slightly cracked and studded generously with glossy chocolate chips, adding a textured contrast to the smooth inside. Behind the cutting board, a soft, light green cloth is casually folded, adding a splash of color to the scene. Near the lower left corner, part of a white bowl filled with more dark chocolate chips is visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 6.1

Garnishes

When I serve this bread, I like sprinkling a few extra chocolate chips or some powdered sugar on top for a nice visual pop. Sometimes, a light spread of salted butter or a smear of cream cheese frosting makes it feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a mug of hot chocolate for breakfast or an afternoon treat. I’ve also enjoyed it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve sliced this bread and served mini stacks with fresh berries and whipped cream for a fun brunch twist. Wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine, it also makes a perfect homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually wrap the leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want it to last longer, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge works great for up to a week—just let it come to room temp before eating.

Freezing

Freezing the baked and fully cooled loaf wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil is a lifesaver. I’ve frozen it for up to 3 months with no loss in taste or texture. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and sometimes warm it slightly before slicing.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, I pop slices in the toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This refreshes the melty chocolate feeling and soft crumb, making leftovers just as delightful as the day you baked them.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen zucchini in this Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe?

    Yes! If you decide to use frozen zucchini, make sure it’s fully thawed and gently blot excess moisture with paper towels. Too much moisture can make the bread soggy and affect baking, so this step is key for success.

  2. What if I don’t have espresso powder?

    No worries if you don’t have espresso powder on hand. You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of instant coffee powder or simply leave it out. The bread will still be delicious, though that little boost gives an extra depth to the chocolate flavor.

  3. How do I avoid overbaking the bread?

    Check your bread starting at the 45-minute mark using a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Loosely covering the top with foil halfway through baking helps prevent the crust from getting too dark.

  4. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

    Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully for muffins. Bake them at a higher temperature first to get a nice rise, then reduce the baking temp and time as outlined in the recipe variations section. It’s a great way to turn this bread into portable single servings.

Final Thoughts

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe holds a special place in my baking collection because it’s both indulgent and nutritious — the perfect way to enjoy chocolate without guilt. I hope you give it a try and find joy in the rich flavors and moist texture just like I have. Remember, baking is all about experimentation and fun, so tweak it to fit your taste and savor every bite!

Print
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Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 79 reviews
  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 1 loaf; 10 slices
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread is a moist, rich, and chocolatey quick bread that combines the health benefits of zucchini with the indulgence of cocoa and chocolate chips. Perfect for a snack or dessert, it features a deep chocolate flavor enhanced by espresso powder and balanced by creamy Greek yogurt, resulting in a dense yet tender loaf that stays fresh for days.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
  • 1/2 cup (41g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder (not Dutch process)
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 3/4 cup (135g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1/3 cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) shredded zucchini (no need to blot)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8×4-inch loaf pan (for a taller loaf) with nonstick spray, then set it aside.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened natural cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder until fully combined. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and set the mixture aside.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Combine Batter: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk just until combined to avoid overmixing. Then fold in the shredded zucchini carefully. The batter will be very thick.
  5. Bake the Bread: Pour the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, checking around 45 minutes. Halfway through baking, loosely cover the bread with aluminum foil to prevent the top from overcooking. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few small moist crumbs.
  6. Cool and Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 1 hour. While still warm, optionally press a few extra chocolate chips on top for decoration.
  7. Finish Cooling and Store: Remove the bread from the pan and place it directly on the wire rack to cool completely. Store at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to one week.

Notes

  • Freezing Instructions: Freeze baked and cooled loaf, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
  • Special Tools: 9×5-inch or 8×4-inch loaf pan, box grater, glass mixing bowls, whisk, silicone spatula, cooling rack.
  • Doubling Recipe: You can double all ingredients and divide batter between two loaf pans. If batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk.
  • Chocolate Zucchini Muffins: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Fill 12-count muffin pan with batter, bake 5 minutes, then reduce temp to 350°F and bake 14–15 more minutes for 10–12 muffins.
  • Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake 19-20 minutes. Cool and frost with chocolate buttercream for 12 cupcakes.
  • Cocoa Powder Note: Use natural cocoa powder, not Dutch-process, for best flavor and texture.
  • Espresso Powder: Deepens chocolate flavor—substitute 1 tsp instant coffee powder if unavailable.
  • Chocolate Chips: Essential for sweetness and flavor; do not omit.
  • Yogurt: Use plain Greek yogurt (nonfat or any fat content), sour cream, or regular plain yogurt. Using 1/3 cup increases moisture compared to previous versions.
  • Sugar: For sweeter bread, use 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar.
  • Zucchini: Do not peel before shredding unless preferred. One medium zucchini (about 1½ cups shredded) is sufficient. If using frozen zucchini, thaw and lightly blot before adding.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 246
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 76.4mg
  • Fat: 11.9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7.9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33.2g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5.4g
  • Cholesterol: 37.6mg

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