There’s something undeniably comforting about the sweet scent of baking bread wafting through the house, especially when it’s Zucchini Orange Bread—a delightful twist on traditional recipes. One afternoon, while rummaging through my garden’s end-of-summer bounty, I discovered an abundance of fresh zucchini just waiting to be transformed into something delicious. I decided to combine it with juicy oranges, creating a bread that’s not only moist but also bursting with flavor.

This recipe is my go-to for an easy yet impressive treat that satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt. The vibrant notes of orange complement the subtle earthiness of zucchini, making it a versatile choice for breakfast, snacktime, or even dessert. It’s perfect for those days when you’re weary of fast food and longing for something homemade and wholesome. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll enjoy the simplicity of this recipe and the joy of sharing it with family and friends. So, let’s get baking!

Why is Zucchini Orange Bread so delightful?

Deliciously Unique: This bread combines the sweetness of oranges with the earthiness of zucchini, creating a flavor profile that’s both unique and delightful.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can whip this up effortlessly.
Moist & Flavorful: The result is a moist, tender bread that’s perfect for any time of day.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Crowd-Pleasing: Share it at gatherings or family meals; this recipe is sure to impress! For even more delicious treats, check out our recipe for Sweet Potato Bread.

Zucchini Orange Bread Ingredients

For the Batter
• Large eggs – enrich the dough and create a fluffy texture.
• Sugar – adds sweetness that beautifully balances the bread’s flavors.
• Vegetable oil – ensures the bread stays moist throughout.
• Orange juice – provides that refreshing citrus zing, enhancing the Zucchini Orange Bread’s flavor.
• Shredded unpeeled zucchini – keeps the bread moist and deliciously hearty.
• All-purpose flour – the backbone of the bread, giving it structure.
• Baking powder – helps the bread rise and attain a perfect fluffiness.
• Baking soda – works in harmony with the acidic orange juice for leavening.
• Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
• Grated orange zest – infuses the bread with an extra burst of citrus aroma.
• Ground cinnamon – adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Ground cloves – introduces a hint of spice that complements the sweetness.
• Chopped nuts (optional) – add a delightful crunch and texture to every bite.

For the Glaze
• Powdered sugar – forms the sweet base for a luscious glaze.
• Orange juice – thins the sugar to create a smooth, drizzlable glaze.

How to Make Zucchini Orange Bread

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8×4-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pans with flour to prevent sticking.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until thick and pale, then gradually mix in the sugar until well combined and creamy.
Add Liquids & Zucchini: Gently stir in the vegetable oil, orange juice, and the shredded zucchini, mixing until everything is nicely blended.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves. This combination will build the flavor and structure of your bread.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in some chopped nuts for an added crunch!
Bake: Carefully divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the Bread: Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet citrusy finish to your bread.
Final Cooling & Storage: Allow the loaves to cool completely before wrapping them in an airtight container or refrigerating. You can also freeze them for delicious treats later!

Optional: Drizzle some additional orange zest on top for an extra citrus touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Zucchini Orange Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, store the wet mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the dry ingredients in a cool, dry place. When you’re ready to bake, combine the mixtures and proceed as normal. Another option is to bake the bread ahead of time, allowing it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to 3 days. For the best quality, warm the bread slightly in the oven before serving; it will taste just as delicious as when it was freshly baked!

Helpful Tricks for Zucchini Orange Bread

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh zucchini and good-quality oranges to enhance the flavors in your Zucchini Orange Bread. Fresh ingredients make a world of difference!

Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry mixtures, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so be gentle!

Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on it!

Cooling Matters: Allow the bread to cool in the pans for at least 10 minutes to prevent it from breaking apart. Then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Glazing Tips: For the perfect glaze, aim for a smooth, pourable consistency. Add more orange juice as needed to achieve the desired thickness.

Zucchini Orange Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with this lovely bread recipe, making it your own with delightful twists!

Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Nuts & Seeds: Add 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts or seeds, like walnuts or chia seeds, for extra crunch and nutrition. A great way to personalize your bread!
Dairy-Free: Swap the vegetable oil for melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter to make a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.
Spiced Up: For a warmer flavor, increase the ground cinnamon to 3 teaspoons or add a dash of nutmeg for an aromatic twist.
Citrus Burst: Mix in lemon zest or swap in freshly squeezed lemon juice for a fresh citrus spin that brightens the flavor.
Chocolate Swirl: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking for a decadent touch that adds a rich sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version, and enjoy the same delightful taste without the wheat!
Savory Option: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, then stir in chopped herbs and cheese for a savory version that’s perfect for brunch!

What to Serve with Zucchini Orange Bread?

Indulge in a delightful meal that perfectly complements the sweet and zesty flavors of this moist bread.

Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of tangy yogurt balances the sweet bread beautifully, adding a creamy texture for a satisfying bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries, melons, and citrus brings a refreshing crunch that enhances the bread’s fruity notes.
Nutty Granola: Serve a sprinkle of granola on the side for added texture that contrasts the softness of the Zucchini Orange Bread.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or peppermint tea complements the hints of orange and cinnamon, creating a cozy pairing.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey offers an extra layer of sweetness, elevating the deliciousness of each slice.
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie add a rich creaminess that balances the zesty flavors, making an elegant snack.

This array of pairings allows you to customize each experience with your Zucchini Orange Bread, creating moments of joy for every palate.

How to Store and Freeze Zucchini Orange Bread

Room Temperature: Allow the Zucchini Orange Bread to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the wrapped bread in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, keeping it moist and delicious.

Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a warm treat!

Zucchini Orange Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my zucchini is ripe?
Absolutely! Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis that are shiny and have no dark spots. Ideally, you want to use small to medium-sized zucchinis, around 6 to 7 inches long, as they tend to be the tastiest and have fewer seeds.

How should I store leftover Zucchini Orange Bread?
Very good question! To keep your Zucchini Orange Bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil once it’s completely cooled. At room temperature, it stays lovely for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it, and it can last up to a week. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain moisture!

Can I freeze Zucchini Orange Bread, and if so, how?
Certainly! Freezing is a great way to save some for later! First, slice the bread into individual pieces. Then, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight freezer bag. Your bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the slices at room temperature or in the fridge overnight!

What if my bread won’t rise properly?
The more the merrier with troubleshooting! If your Zucchini Orange Bread doesn’t rise well, check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda; they should be active. Also, ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, which can lead to dense bread instead of the lovely fluff you’re desiring. Lastly, remember to preheat your oven before baking – it’s essential for a good rise!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely, keep your loved ones in mind! If you’re concerned about allergies, note that this recipe contains eggs, and the optional nuts can be a common allergen as well. For a nut-free version, simply skip the nuts, and you can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan alternative!

Can I add different types of nuts or fruits to this recipe?
Yes, indeed! Adjusting is always delightful! Besides the optional chopped nuts, you could incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture they can bring to the bread, and reduce the amount of zucchini slightly if needed for balance!

Zucchini Orange Bread Recipe FAQs