Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

If you’re looking for a deliciously unique way to enjoy a classic quick bread, you’ve come to the right place! This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with gooey chocolate chips. The best part? It sneaks in shredded zucchini, making it a fun and sneaky way to add some veggies into your day. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a sweet addition to family gatherings, this bread will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s easy enough to whip up when you’re pressed for time but still feels indulgent. I love how it gets even better the next day, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. Trust me, if you have any leftovers (which is rare), they will make your mornings brighter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can have this warm bread ready in no time, perfect for beginner bakers!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays fresh and tasty!
• Healthy Twist: Sneaking in zucchini means you get extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Great as breakfast, a snack, or even dessert—this bread fits every occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! You probably have most of these items in your pantry already.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 and 2/3 cups (208g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter (processed or natural)
• 2/3 cup (133g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (113g) honey
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (any kind), at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Main Add-Ins

• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) shredded zucchini (no need to blot)
• 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Variations

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is quite flexible! Feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Go Nut-Free: Swap out the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter if you need a nut-free option.
• Change Up the Sweetener: Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add some nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a warm spice twist.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray. This ensures your bread comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps them combine evenly, ensuring your bread rises perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the oil, peanut butter, brown sugar, honey, eggs, milk, and vanilla until well combined. This mixture will bring moisture and flavor to our bread.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir or whisk until just combined—overmixing can make your bread dense! Then fold in the zucchini and chocolate chips with a silicone spatula until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 55–70 minutes. Cover loosely with aluminum foil halfway through if it starts browning too much. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with only a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for about an hour in the pan before removing it. If you slice too soon while it’s still warm in the center, it may crumble. For tidy slices, let it cool completely!

There you have it! A delicious loaf of Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread that will charm everyone who tastes it! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

Making this delicious bread is a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly grated zucchini retains moisture better than pre-packaged options, leading to a more flavorful and moist bread.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently folding the ingredients together prevents the bread from becoming dense. A light hand keeps it fluffy!

• Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar to suit your taste preferences. This way, you can customize your bread’s sweetness level.

• Add Nuts for Crunch: If you enjoy a bit of texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. They provide a delightful contrast to the soft bread.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool completely ensures clean slices and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is not just a treat on its own; it can be beautifully presented and paired with other dishes for an elevated experience. Here are a few suggestions!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes the bread visually appealing.
• Creamy Peanut Butter Spread: Serve slices with an extra smear of peanut butter for those who can’t get enough of that nutty flavor.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries enhances the dish both in color and freshness, making for a delightful contrast.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt Parfait: Pair your zucchini bread with a yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh fruits for a wholesome breakfast option.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the bread and adds brightness to your plate.
• Cottage Cheese: The creamy texture and mild flavor of cottage cheese make it an excellent accompaniment, providing protein while balancing out the sweetness.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a warm slice with your favorite cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an indulgent afternoon snack.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread! Whether it’s for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a loaf ahead of time, making it an ideal grab-and-go breakfast or snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Place the sliced bread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter in Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread?

Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.

How long does Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread last?

When stored properly, this bread will last up to 5 days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge. It actually tastes even better on day 2!

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf with this recipe?

Yes! This batter can easily be transformed into muffins. Simply divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 18-22 minutes.

Is it necessary to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini?

No need! The moisture from the shredded zucchini helps keep the bread moist. Just make sure to measure your zucchini after shredding.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread as much as I do! It’s such a comforting treat that combines delicious flavors while sneaking in some veggies. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save slices for later, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your experience!