If you’ve been on the hunt for a cozy, sweet treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then this Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect combination of tender zucchini-infused bread with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that adds a delightful burst of flavor — moist, fluffy, and packed with just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this zucchini bread quickly becomes a favorite that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the shredded zucchini offering moisture and subtle veggie sweetness, to the cinnamon and sugar creating that signature swirl of yum. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup finely shredded zucchini: This adds natural moisture and a tender crumb without overpowering the bread.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the batter.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The dependable base that holds everything together.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread perfectly without being too much.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise to a lovely fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and heightens all other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for swirl): Delivers that irresistible warm spice classic in cinnamon bread.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for swirl): Combines with cinnamon for the signature sweet swirl throughout the loaf.
How to Make Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F to get it nice and hot. Grab a 9×5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper — this trick ensures your bread will come out effortlessly, with no sticking or crumbling. Proper preparation is key to a perfect loaf.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your finely shredded zucchini, eggs, vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix everything gently until the ingredients become beautifully combined and your batter has a luscious texture. This blend builds the moist foundation your bread will shine on.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes your leavening agent and sweetness, making sure every bite has even flavor and structure.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently — you want to mix until just combined to keep the bread tender and avoid toughness. A lightly mixed batter leads to the soft crumb this recipe is known for.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mix
In a small bowl, stir together the cinnamon and remaining sugar. This fragrant cinnamon sugar is what elevates this zucchini bread from everyday to extra special, creating the signature swirls with a burst of aromatic sweetness.
Step 6: Layer to Create the Swirl Effect
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Then pour in the remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture on top. Grab a butter knife and gently swirl it through the layers to create those beautiful cinnamon ribbons throughout the bread.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop your loaf into the oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Then, let it cool slightly so the flavors can settle and the slice will be easier to cut. The reward? A perfectly moist and delicious cinnamon swirl zucchini bread you’ll want to bake again and again.
How to Serve Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of cream cheese glaze enhances the visual appeal and adds a touch of extra sweetness. Freshly sliced almonds or chopped walnuts sprinkled on top before baking can add a delightful crunch, complementing the soft bread wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This zucchini bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a cold glass of milk. Serve alongside fresh fruit or a small bowl of yogurt for a balanced breakfast or afternoon snack that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut thick slices and toast them lightly, then spread with butter and a hint of honey or cinnamon butter for a warm, melting treat. For a fun twist, try serving small cubes of this Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe in a dessert parfait layered with whipped cream and berries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover zucchini bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it well-sealed ensures it stays moist and fresh, just like the day it came out of the oven.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Slice before freezing in an airtight freezer bag or wrap the whole loaf generously in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months to enjoy whenever a craving hits—just thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer.
Reheating
To bring your zucchini bread back to life, warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly. This revives the moist texture and the cinnamon aroma that makes this bread so comforting and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil?
Absolutely! Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist without flavor interference, but you can substitute with mild olive oil or melted coconut oil for a slightly different taste profile.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
Not at all. The zucchini’s skin is tender and packed with nutrients, plus it adds a lovely green fleck throughout the bread which looks charming and rustic.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center—you want it to come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top should also be golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend 1:1. To maintain moisture and texture, look for blends that already contain xanthan gum or add a little yourself.
Is the yogurt necessary?
Greek yogurt adds tenderness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. If you don’t have it, sour cream or even buttermilk can make good substitutes to keep the bread moist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade zucchini bread with cinnamon that never gets old. This Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that’s easy enough for any day but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Give it a try, and you’ll soon understand why it’s loved by so many — it’s the cozy comfort food you’ve been dreaming of.
Print
Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices (approximately 12 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Moist and Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread is a flavorful, tender loaf perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The bread features finely shredded zucchini for moisture, combined with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that adds a lovely spiced sweetness. Using Greek yogurt and vegetable oil ensures a rich yet light texture. Baked to golden perfection, this bread is a delightful treat that balances wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavor.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup finely shredded zucchini
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the finely shredded zucchini, eggs, vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until all the wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and 1/2 cup granulated sugar thoroughly to create the cinnamon sugar swirl.
- Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top. Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-65 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Finely shred the zucchini and gently squeeze out excess moisture if very watery to avoid soggy bread.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread can also be frozen; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- For a healthier alternative, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
