Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful bread that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or as a sweet breakfast option:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
For a twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. If you’re out of plain yogurt, sour cream works as an excellent alternative. These little swaps can add a new dimension to the bread without losing its charm.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the vegetable oil, yogurt, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
- Gently fold in the grated zucchini, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
As a tip from my kitchen to yours: if you notice the top browning too quickly, tent the loaf with aluminum foil halfway through baking. This ensures you get that perfect golden crust without compromising the moist interior.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International