Healthy Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread: A Wholesome Twist on a Classic

Are you looking for a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet? Look no further than this Healthy Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread! This recipe takes the classic zucchini bread and gives it a nutritious upgrade by adding Greek yogurt, which not only enhances the texture but also packs a protein punch.

Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, this zucchini bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!

• Visual Appeal: The vibrant green flecks of zucchini throughout the bread create a beautiful contrast with the golden brown crust.
• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra treat.
• Occasions to Serve: Ideal for brunches, cozy family gatherings, or as a healthy snack on the go.

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 150 calories per slice

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg

Cook and Prep Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Zucchini Bread

• 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, non-fat)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk together until well blended.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Add Zucchini: Gently fold in the grated zucchini until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Bread

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini will yield the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Squeeze: Before grating, squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent a soggy bread.
• Customize: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dense Texture: This may occur from overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined.
• Soggy Bread: Ensure you have squeezed out excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to the batter.
• Burnt Edges: If the edges start to brown too much, cover the loaf with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute the Greek yogurt? Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce or sour cream if desired.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free? You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
3. How do I store leftover zucchini bread? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
4. Can I freeze zucchini bread? Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Healthy Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat while adding a nutritious twist. With its moist texture and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as a wholesome snack any time of the day!