Cinnamon Streusel Zucchini Bread: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore It

January 9, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite treat to bake: cinnamon streusel zucchini bread! Seriously, this bread is like a warm hug in loaf form. I can’t get enough of its moist, tender texture mixed with the sweet, spiced goodness of cinnamon. The best part? You’d never guess there’s zucchini hiding in there, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness that makes each slice so delightful.

cinnamon streusel zucchini bread - detail 1

I love making this bread not just for its incredible flavor but also for how easy it is to whip up. Just imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes—pure bliss! And the crunchy, buttery streusel topping? It takes this bread to a whole new level of yum. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as dessert, this cinnamon streusel zucchini bread is bound to impress your family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best cinnamon streusel zucchini bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups grated zucchini: Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture for the perfect texture.
1 cup granulated sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: This keeps the bread moist and tender.
2 large eggs: They help bind everything together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: It adds a lovely depth of flavor.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread!
1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the bread rise nicely.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: A little boost for that perfect fluffiness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This is what gives the bread its signature spice.
1/2 teaspoon salt: It enhances all the wonderful flavors.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch if you like!
1/4 cup brown sugar (for streusel): This adds sweetness and a bit of chewiness.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel): Helps bind the streusel topping.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel): Because more cinnamon is always a good idea!
2 tablespoons butter, melted (for streusel): Adds richness and helps create that crumbly topping.

Once you’ve assembled these ingredients, you’re all set to create a loaf of pure deliciousness!

How to Prepare Cinnamon Streusel Zucchini Bread

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious cinnamon streusel zucchini bread! I promise it’s super straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a warm loaf cooling on your counter. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key because you want your bread to bake evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it well with some butter or non-stick spray. Trust me, you don’t want your beautiful bread to stick!

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, let’s combine the fun ingredients! Start by mixing the grated zucchini, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. I like to use a whisk for this part—it really helps mix everything together smoothly. Make sure to get in there and blend well; you want the sugar to start dissolving and everything to be nicely combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

Now, in another bowl, let’s tackle the dry ingredients. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir with a whisk or a fork to ensure everything is evenly mixed. This really helps with the rise and texture of your bread, so don’t skip this step!

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Here comes the moment of truth! Gently add the dry mixture into the bowl with the wet mixture. Now, here’s a little tip from me: mix just until everything is combined. You want to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough. A few lumps are totally okay—just don’t leave any big pockets of dry flour!

Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, let’s whip up that irresistible streusel topping! Combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix it until it’s crumbly. This is what’s going to give your bread that delightful crunch on top!

Assemble the Bread

Time to layer everything in the loaf pan! Pour half of the batter into the greased pan and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle half of your streusel topping over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the streusel. It’s like a delicious surprise waiting inside!

Baking and Cooling Instructions

Pop the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once it’s baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You’ll want to resist the urge to slice into it right away, but trust me, allowing it to cool helps it slice beautifully!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a little heads up: the nutritional information for this cinnamon streusel zucchini bread can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve provided some typical values, they’re not set in stone. Here’s what you can generally expect for a single slice:

Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 3g

Remember, these values are approximate, and it’s always good to check the labels on your ingredients for the most accurate info. Happy baking!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen zucchini in this recipe, which is a lifesaver if you’ve got some stashed away. Just make sure to thaw it first and then squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to your batter. This helps keep the bread from becoming too soggy. It’s a great way to enjoy this delicious cinnamon streusel zucchini bread anytime!

What can I substitute for the walnuts?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have a nut allergy, don’t worry! There are plenty of tasty alternatives. You could use chocolate chips for a sweet twist, or try sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch without the nuts. Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries works beautifully too, adding a lovely chewiness. The key is to add something that complements the flavors of the bread!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing your cinnamon streusel zucchini bread is super easy! Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place slices in a freezer bag. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and it’ll be as delicious as the day you baked it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this cinnamon streusel zucchini bread! Here are just a few that I think you’ll absolutely love:

Quick and Easy

This recipe is a breeze! With just a handful of straightforward steps, you’ll be on your way to a delicious homemade loaf in no time. I mean, who doesn’t love a simple recipe that delivers such big flavor? You can whip this up even on a busy day, and it’s perfect for beginner bakers too!

Moist and Flavorful

The combination of grated zucchini and that crunchy, buttery streusel topping creates a moist, tender bread that’s bursting with flavor. Seriously, each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy goodness. And the aroma that wafts through your kitchen while it bakes? Pure heaven!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cinnamon streusel zucchini bread is so versatile! Whether you slice it up for breakfast, enjoy it as a midday snack, or serve it as a warm dessert, it fits any moment perfectly. I love bringing it to gatherings or sharing it with friends and family—everyone always asks for seconds!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this amazing cinnamon streusel zucchini bread, let me share a few pro tips to make sure it turns out perfectly every single time!

Use Fresh Zucchini

One of the most important tips I can give you is to use fresh zucchini. Fresh zucchini not only adds moisture to the bread but also delivers a subtle flavor that really shines through. If your zucchini is past its prime, it can be watery and affect the overall texture of the bread. So, grab the freshest zucchini you can find for the best results!

Don’t Overmix Batter

When it comes to mixing your batter, remember that less is more! Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf instead of the light and fluffy texture you’re aiming for. Mix just until everything is combined, and don’t worry about a few lumps. Your bread will thank you for it!

Let Cool Before Slicing

I know it’s hard to resist the temptation to dive right into that warm loaf, but letting it cool is key! After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. This cooling time helps the bread set up properly, making it easier to slice without crumbling. Trust me, you’ll get those beautiful, perfect slices if you just wait a little longer!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made this delicious cinnamon streusel zucchini bread, you’ll want to savor every last crumb! Storing it properly is essential to keep it fresh and tasty. Here’s how to do it:

To store leftovers, simply place your zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay good for up to 3 days—if it lasts that long! Just try to keep it covered so it doesn’t dry out.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, freezing is a fantastic option! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, and then wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. This double protection helps prevent freezer burn and keeps your bread moist. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its deliciousness!

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cinnamon streusel zucchini bread, just take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. No need to rush—this slow thawing helps maintain the texture. If you prefer a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for just a few seconds to warm it up, or you can slice it and toast it lightly in the oven. Voila! You’ll have a slice of heaven ready to enjoy!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.