Blueberry Zucchini Bread

This Blueberry Zucchini Bread is a delightful summer treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of blueberries with the moisture of zucchini. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this quick and easy recipe will become your go-to favorite whenever you have an abundance of zucchini. Its soft texture and burst of flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With no mixer required, you can whip up this delicious bread in just a few simple steps.
• Perfectly Sweet: The balance of sweetness makes it a delightful treat without being overwhelming.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh blueberries and zucchini, it’s a tasty way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 10 servings, perfect for sharing with friends and family during summer gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Blueberry Zucchini Bread, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures your bread bakes evenly and holds its shape.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a light texture.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in delicate ingredients like blueberries without crushing them.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/3 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream (lite is okay; or Greek yogurt may be substituted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1/4 cup for tossing with blueberries
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 cup coarsely grated zucchini (laid loosely in cup and not packed; don’t wring out)
• 1 cup (6 ounces) fresh blueberries (I haven’t tried with frozen)

How to Make Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare one 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with floured cooking spray or greasing and flouring the pan. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the egg, both sugars, oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add 1 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Add Zucchini

Fold in the grated zucchini into the batter until evenly mixed. Set this mixture aside.

Step 5: Prepare Blueberries

In a medium bowl, combine the fresh blueberries with the remaining 1/4 cup of flour. Toss them gently to coat; this helps prevent them from sinking during baking.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the blueberry mixture to the large bowl containing your batter. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense bread.

Step 7: Transfer Batter to Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top lightly with a spatula. For added color on top, sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of blueberries over the surface.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for approximately 55 to 60 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Remember that baking times may vary based on several factors.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow your bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing. This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to one week or frozen for up to six months.

How to Serve Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Blueberry zucchini bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or as dessert, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Toasted with Butter

• Toast slices of blueberry zucchini bread and spread a pat of butter on top. The melted butter enhances the flavors and adds richness.

Cream Cheese Spread

• For a creamy twist, top your slice with cream cheese. You can even mix in a bit of honey for extra sweetness!

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas to complement the flavors of the bread and provide a refreshing contrast.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Heat slices slightly in the microwave and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This creates a deliciously warm and cold dessert experience.

Drizzle of Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over each slice adds natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

Perfectly Paired Beverages

• Enjoy blueberry zucchini bread with a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink balances nicely with the sweet bread.

How to Perfect Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Perfecting blueberry zucchini bread is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your loaf turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh blueberries and freshly grated zucchini yield the best flavor and texture in your bread.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your bread tender and avoid a dense texture.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to test if it’s done; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread while baking, as oven temperatures can vary, affecting cooking time.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool before slicing helps maintain its structure and moisture.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding nuts or spices like cinnamon for added flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with blueberry zucchini bread can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Savory scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast when served alongside this sweet bread.
4. Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese offers protein while keeping the meal light; add some fruit for extra flavor!
5. Nut Mix: A small bowl of mixed nuts gives a crunchy contrast that pairs well with soft bread.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl serves as an energizing side, full of fruits and nutrients that match well with blueberry flavors.
7. Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots create an interesting savory-sweet combination that works beautifully together.
8. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with berries can provide a nutritious balance to the meal while echoing similar flavors from the bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making blueberry zucchini bread, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them.

• Using packed zucchini: When measuring your zucchini, make sure it’s loosely grated and not packed into the cup. Packing can lead to excess moisture, affecting the texture of your bread.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your bread dense. Stir until ingredients are just combined for a light, fluffy loaf.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Check for doneness with a toothpick instead of relying solely on the clock; this ensures perfectly baked bread.
• Skipping flour coating on blueberries: Failing to coat blueberries in flour can cause them to sink during baking. This step helps distribute them evenly throughout the loaf.
• Not allowing it to cool before slicing: Cutting into warm bread can lead to gummy slices. Let your loaf cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness.

Freezing Blueberry Zucchini Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 6 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Blueberry Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden and warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about blueberry zucchini bread, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

How can I make Blueberry Zucchini Bread healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour and reduce sugar by using ripe bananas or applesauce as natural sweeteners.

Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Zucchini Bread?

While fresh blueberries work best, you can use frozen ones. Just be sure not to thaw them beforehand as they may release excess moisture.

What type of zucchini should I use?

Use medium-sized, firm zucchinis without blemishes. Smaller zucchinis tend to be sweeter and less seedy.

How do I know when my Blueberry Zucchini Bread is done?

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

Final Thoughts

This blueberry zucchini bread is a delightful way to use summer’s bountiful harvest. It’s sweet enough to satisfy cravings while still being versatile—enjoy it as breakfast or dessert! Feel free to customize with nuts or spices like cinnamon for an extra twist. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every slice!