Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread is a delightful combination of two classic treats: moist zucchini bread and sweet cinnamon rolls. This recipe offers a warm, comforting loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert. With its cinnamon swirl and soft, flavorful crumb, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Directions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bread.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This will help evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the bread.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir in the grated zucchini, making sure it’s well incorporated into the mixture.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
5. Add the Cinnamon Swirl:
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon swirl ingredients—brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Spread this mixture over the batter, then top with the remaining batter.
6. Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture:
Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter. This creates a beautiful marbled effect and ensures that the cinnamon flavor is distributed throughout the bread.
7. Bake the Bread:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and have a firm, set texture.
8. Cool and Serve:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Calories: 300 kcal per slice
- Servings: 10 slices
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips
- Ideal Serving Temperature: Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread is delicious both warm and at room temperature. For a comforting treat, serve it slightly warm, straight from the oven or after a brief reheat in the microwave.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy a slice plain, or for an extra treat, spread with a bit of butter or cream cheese. For a decadent touch, top with a light glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Pairings: This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. It makes a great addition to breakfast or brunch spreads and can also be enjoyed as an afternoon snack.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep the bread fresh and prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can store the bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor.
- Freezing: Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread freezes well. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature or gently reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Transporting the Bread
- For Travel: If you’re taking the bread to a gathering or event, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a sturdy container to prevent it from getting squished. For added freshness, you can include a small ice pack if traveling for an extended period.
- Cooling Before Transport: Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping and transporting to ensure it stays fresh and doesn’t become soggy.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through. This is a quick way to enjoy a slice of bread with a soft, just-baked texture.
- Oven: For reheating the entire loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread remains delicious and fresh, whether you’re enjoying it immediately or saving it for later.
Variations:
1. Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolatey twist. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a rich and indulgent treat.
2. Nutty Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and extra flavor that complements the sweet cinnamon swirl.
3. Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Substitute the ground cinnamon with 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired version. This adds warm, spiced flavors that pair beautifully with the zucchini and cinnamon swirl.
4. Apple Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped apples along with the zucchini. The apples add a touch of sweetness and a bit of texture to the bread.
5. Glazed Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled bread for added sweetness. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze.
6. Cream Cheese Swirl Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Replace the cinnamon swirl mixture with a cream cheese filling. Blend 4 oz of cream cheese with 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Swirl this mixture through the batter for a creamy, tangy twist.
7. Berry Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to the batter. The berries add a burst of fruity flavor that complements the cinnamon swirl.
8. Coconut Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Mix 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist. Coconut adds a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the cinnamon.
9. Lemon Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor. The lemon brightens up the sweetness of the cinnamon swirl.
10. Maple Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread
Substitute the granulated sugar with maple syrup or maple sugar for a unique flavor. This adds a rich, maple sweetness that complements the cinnamon and zucchini.
These variations provide exciting ways to customize your Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures. Each option offers a unique twist on the classic recipe, making it even more versatile and enjoyable.
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute yellow squash for zucchini in this recipe. Just make sure to grate it finely and drain any excess moisture to maintain the right texture in the bread.
2. How can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
3. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil in place of vegetable oil. It will add a slight olive flavor, but it works well in the recipe and maintains the moisture of the bread.
4. How do I ensure the zucchini doesn’t make the bread too soggy?
Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth before adding it to the batter. This helps to prevent excess moisture in the bread.
5. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute the granulated sugar and brown sugar with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the bread.
6. How can I make this bread dairy-free?
To make the bread dairy-free, use a dairy-free alternative to butter for the cinnamon swirl and replace the vegetable oil with a neutral oil such as coconut oil.