This Soft Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread is a tasty treat! It’s fluffy and moist, with a delightful cinnamon-sugar sprinkle on top that gives it a special touch.
Whenever I bake this, my kitchen smells amazing! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to use up those extra zucchinis. Enjoy a slice warm with a cup of tea—heavenly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your bread, giving it structure. If you’re gluten-free, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had great success with almond flour, but it can change the texture a bit.
Zucchini: Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture after grating. If zucchini isn’t available, try using shredded carrots or apples for a fruity twist. Just adjust sugar levels if needed, as apples can be sweeter.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds moisture and richness. You can substitute with plain yogurt, but for a dairy-free version, use a plant-based yogurt. I love Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control over salt levels. If you’re in a pinch, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can work just as well, giving it a slight coconut flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Bread Isn’t Overmixed?
A common challenge in baking is overmixing, which can lead to tough bread instead of soft and fluffy. To avoid this:
- Mix the wet ingredients until just combined before adding the dry.
- Stir in the dry ingredients with a spatula or wooden spoon until no flour streaks remain. A few lumps are okay!
- Keep in mind that you’re not trying to create a smooth batter.
By following these steps, you’ll keep your zucchini bread light and airy!
How Can I Make Sure My Bread Cooks Evenly?
Uniformity in baking is key! Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven fully before placing your bread inside. This ensures consistent cooking from the start.
- Use a light-colored pan to avoid burning the bottom. Dark pans absorb more heat.
- Check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the bread is done; if it has wet batter, give it a few more minutes.
These tips will help you achieve a perfectly baked loaf! Enjoy your baking experience!
Soft Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
For the Snickerdoodle Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 50-60 minutes to bake. After that, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan. You’ll be enjoying your soft, warm bread in about 1.5 hours total. Totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to keep your bread from sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these together ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents, giving your bread a nice rise.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. It’s the perfect time for your arm workout!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely fragrance to your batter!
5. Mix In Zucchini and Sour Cream:
Now, fold in the grated zucchini and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until everything is combined. The zucchini adds moisture and helps keep the bread soft.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the zucchini mixture. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. It should look nice and even!
8. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for the snickerdoodle topping. Sprinkle this generously over the batter in the loaf pan.
9. Bake:
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean (or with a few moist crumbs).
10. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Slice and Enjoy:
After cooling, slice your Soft Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread and serve! Enjoy it warm with a cup of tea or coffee, or save it for a tasty snack later!
This recipe yields a soft, moist zucchini bread with a delightful cinnamon-sugar topping that adds a snickerdoodle flavor twist. Perfect for any time of the day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Zucchini with Other Vegetables or Fruits?
Absolutely! If you don’t have zucchini on hand, shredded carrots or apples work well as substitutes. Just remember to adjust the sugar levels slightly, as apples can be sweeter!
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour is a healthier option, but it may yield a denser bread. To maintain a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a great balance!
What Should I Do if My Bread is Too Moist or Dense?
If your bread turns out too moist, try squeezing out more water from the grated zucchini next time. It’s also important not to overmix the batter, as that can make the bread denser. Each oven is different, so make sure to check doneness with a toothpick too!
