If you think zucchini is just a summer vegetable, think again! This Glazed Double Chocolate Cream Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Bread is a game changer that will have you craving more with every bite. Imagine a moist, rich chocolate loaf, perfectly infused with the subtle sweetness of cream cheese and the unexpected delight of zucchini. It's the ultimate guilt-free indulgence that will impress your family and friends while keeping your taste buds dancing. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this deliciously decadent recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper.
- Grate fresh zucchini using a box grater. Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Add eggs one at a time to the sugar-cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in unsweetened applesauce until fully incorporated.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold the drained zucchini into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Prepare a simple chocolate glaze by mixing powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk, then drizzle over the cooled bread before serving.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: For the best flavor and moisture, use fresh zucchini. Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis without blemishes.
- Squeeze Out Moisture: After grating the zucchini, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This will prevent your bread from becoming too soggy.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread around the 45-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Glaze It Up: For an extra touch of decadence, prepare a simple chocolate glaze to drizzle over the cooled bread. It adds a beautiful finish and an extra chocolatey kick!
- Storage: This zucchini bread stays fresh for several days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
