Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

Easy, healthy, and wholesome Greek yogurt zucchini bread will be your new favorite recipe for this classic quick bread! This delightful treat is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it stands out from traditional zucchini bread. The addition of Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, making it a guilt-free indulgence you’ll enjoy any time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious zucchini and Greek yogurt, this bread offers a healthier alternative to regular quick breads.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this delicious loaf without any fuss.
• Versatile Options: Customize your bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or citrus zest to match your taste.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for brunches, picnics, or as an on-the-go snack.
• Long Shelf Life: Store it at room temperature for up to five days without losing freshness.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek yogurt zucchini bread, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Gather everything before you start baking to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Grater (for zucchini)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: This specific size ensures even baking and the perfect loaf shape.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for organized mixing of wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Rubber spatula: Great for folding in delicate ingredients like zucchini without overmixing.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/3 cup (80ml) canola, vegetable, or melted coconut oil
– 1/2 cup (120ml) honey or organic blue agave
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (121g) plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup (130g) shredded zucchini (see note)
– optional: 2 teaspoons orange zest (so good!)
– optional: 3/4 cup (95g) chopped walnuts, (115g) raisins, or (135g) chocolate chips

How to Make Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the oil, honey (or agave), egg, yogurt, and vanilla until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until fully mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
1. Stir gently with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
2. Fold in the shredded zucchini and optional orange zest or nuts if using.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake for about 40–50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
2. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
2. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to five days. Enjoy!

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

Serving Greek yogurt zucchini bread can be a delightful experience, as it pairs well with various toppings and accompaniments. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of ways to enhance its flavors.

With Cream Cheese

• Spread a layer of cream cheese on a warm slice for a rich and creamy addition.

With Fresh Fruits

• Top the bread with sliced strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture.

With Honey Drizzle

• A light drizzle of honey adds sweetness and complements the zucchini’s natural flavors beautifully.

As French Toast

• Dip slices in egg batter and cook them on the skillet for a tasty twist on traditional French toast.

With Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on top for a protein-packed snack that is both satisfying and nutritious.

How to Perfect Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

To ensure your Greek yogurt zucchini bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Grate zucchini finely: Finely grated zucchini blends seamlessly into the batter, keeping the bread moist without large chunks.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your egg and Greek yogurt to room temperature helps create a smoother batter that rises evenly.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents the bread from becoming dense. Overmixing activates gluten, leading to tougher bread.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if it’s done. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool fully sets its structure, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with your Greek yogurt zucchini bread can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Salad – A fresh mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can balance the richness of the bread while adding natural sweetness.
3. Herbed Yogurt Dip – A tangy yogurt-based dip with herbs complements the flavors in the bread beautifully.
4. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast when served alongside slices of zucchini bread.
5. Smoothie Bowl – A colorful smoothie bowl topped with granola enhances breakfast options while keeping it healthy.
6. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy dessert provides additional nutrition and pairs well with the moist texture of zucchini bread.
7. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted vegetables add savory notes that contrast nicely with sweet zucchini bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Greek yogurt zucchini bread can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure that your egg and Greek yogurt are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to an uneven batter that doesn’t rise properly.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can cause your bread to be tough. Combine the wet and dry ingredients just until mixed; a few lumps are okay!
• Skipping the greasing step: If you neglect to grease your loaf pan, the bread may stick. Use oil or parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
• Not measuring zucchini correctly: Shredding too much or too little zucchini can change the moisture level of your bread. Make sure to measure it accurately for perfect results.
• Ignoring baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s ready; if it’s browning too quickly, cover it with foil.
• Storing improperly: To maintain freshness, store leftover bread in an airtight container. This helps prevent drying out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Greek yogurt zucchini bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

• Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Greek yogurt zucchini bread.

What makes Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread healthier?

Using Greek yogurt adds protein and moisture without extra fat. This makes the bread lighter and more nutritious compared to traditional recipes.

Can I substitute other sweeteners for honey?

Yes! You can use maple syrup or coconut sugar as alternatives, but be aware that this may slightly change the flavor and texture.

How do I know when my Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done baking!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, chocolate chips, or even raisins for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Greek yogurt zucchini bread is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with various mix-ins like nuts or spices. Try it today and enjoy a healthy treat that everyone will love!