Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread

Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread is a delightful blend of fresh zucchini and tangy lemon, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for any occasion. This bread combines the subtle sweetness of zucchini with the bright citrus notes of lemon, making it a refreshing treat. Let's explore the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious bread.

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: Use 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour as the base of the bread.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise. Use 1/2 teaspoon.
• Baking Soda: Another leavening agent to help the bread rise. Use 1/2 teaspoon.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors. Use 1/2 teaspoon.
• Eggs: Use 2 large eggs, which provide structure and richness.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture. Use 1/2 cup.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread. Use 3/4 cup.
• Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and moisture. Use 1/2 cup.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a hint of sweetness. Use 1 teaspoon.
• Grated Zucchini: Adds moisture and a subtle flavor. Use 1 cup of grated zucchini.
• Lemon Zest: Provides a bright citrus flavor. Use the zest of 1 lemon.
• Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess. Use the juice of 1 lemon.

For the Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the glaze. Use 1 cup.
• Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess to the glaze. Use 2 tablespoons.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a citrusy touch. Use the zest of 1 lemon.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until well combined. This will create a smooth, creamy base for the batter.

Step 4:

Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, grated zucchini, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the egg mixture. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Step 6:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates the bread is fully baked.

Step 7:

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Step 8:

For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and let it set before slicing. This adds a sweet and tangy finish to the bread.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Lemon Zucchini Heaven Bread sliced and enjoy it as a delightful snack, breakfast treat, or dessert. The combination of lemon and zucchini provides a refreshing flavor that's perfect for any time of day. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate the bread to extend its freshness for up to 5 days. For a special touch, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Helpful Notes

To ensure the best texture, be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense loaf. If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the sugar in the glaze or add a bit more lemon zest for extra citrus flavor. For added moisture, you can also substitute some of the vegetable oil with melted butter. This bread can be made a day in advance, and the flavors will meld together even more as it sits.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Ina Garten recommends using fresh, high-quality lemons for the best zest and juice, as they add a bright and vibrant flavor.
Chef Giada De Laurentiis suggests adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spicy note that complements the lemon.
Chef Jamie Oliver advises grating the zucchini finely to blend seamlessly into the bread, adding moisture without being too noticeable.