Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread: A Deliciously Moist Quick Bread Recipe
Introduction
In the realm of quick breads, Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread stands out not only for its rich, moist texture but also for the delightful combination of flavors that make it a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or a sweet afternoon snack. The blend of fresh zucchini, aromatic spices, and the natural sweetness of molasses creates a unique loaf that is sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe yields two generous loaves, making it ideal for sharing, whether at a potluck, family gathering, or simply enjoying at home.
Cooking and Preparation Times
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Prep Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
Recipe Category
- Quick Breads
Keywords
- Breads
- < 60 Mins
- Oven
Nutritional Information
This Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a great addition to your diet. Below is a detailed table of its nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3176.9 |
| Total Fat | 122.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 423 mg |
| Sodium | 2104.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 487.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 13 g |
| Sugars | 271 g |
| Protein | 43.1 g |
Ingredients
To create this delightful bread, gather the following ingredients. The quantities listed will yield two loaves of moist and flavorful Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 4 |
| Brown Sugar | 2 cups |
| Zucchini (grated) | 1 cup |
| Molasses | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Ginger | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground Cloves | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Ground Nutmeg | 1 teaspoon |
| Raisins | 1 cup |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread. The process is simple and straightforward, making it an enjoyable baking experience.
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Prepare the Mixing Bowl: Start by taking a large mixing bowl and beat the eggs at medium speed until they become foamy and light in color. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air into the mixture, contributing to the lightness of the bread.
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Incorporate the Sugar: Gradually add the brown sugar to the beaten eggs, continuing to beat the mixture well until it is fully combined. The sugar not only adds sweetness but also aids in the overall texture of the bread.
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Add Oil: Next, incorporate the oil into the mixture. Beat until it is blended thoroughly with the egg and sugar mixture. The oil will add moisture to the bread, ensuring it remains soft and delicious.
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Mix in Zucchini and Molasses: To this mixture, add the grated zucchini, molasses, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. The zucchini not only adds moisture but also a subtle sweetness and nutritional benefits to the bread.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Mix these dry ingredients until they are well blended. This step is essential to ensure that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
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Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the zucchini mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can result in a dense bread.
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Fold in Raisins: Gently fold in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The raisins will provide delightful bursts of sweetness in each slice.
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Prepare the Loaf Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease and flour two 9x5x3 inch loaf pans to prevent the bread from sticking.
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Pour the Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for an even bake.
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Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaves; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready.
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Cool the Bread: Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them from the pans and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling process is important as it helps to set the bread’s structure and flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: After cooling, slice the Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with butter, cream cheese, or simply on its own.
Conclusion
The Zucchini Molasses Raisin Bread is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to incorporate the health benefits of zucchini into your diet. This recipe not only provides a quick and easy baking solution but also offers a warm, comforting experience that is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option or a delightful snack, this bread is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.
Make sure to share this delightful recipe with friends and family at lovewithrecipes.com. Happy baking!
