We’ve always loved zucchini bread with raisins for its moist, flavorful twist on a classic quick bread. It’s a clever way to turn garden-fresh veggies into a comforting treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Originating from American home baking traditions, this recipe adds plump raisins for extra sweetness and texture, making it a family favorite. We’re excited to share our simple take that brings out the best in every bite.
Ingredients
In our recipe for zucchini bread with raisins, we select high-quality ingredients to deliver a moist, flavorful loaf that’s packed with wholesome goodness. Below, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for clarity and ease.
- 2 cups grated zucchini: We begin with fresh, garden-picked zucchini—grate it finely to release its natural moisture and ensure it blends seamlessly into the batter.
- 3 large eggs: These go in next for structure and richness; use room-temperature eggs to help them incorporate smoothly.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Added right after the eggs, this provides the tender crumb we love in quick breads—opt for a neutral oil to let other flavors shine.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Stir this in for a warm, aromatic depth that enhances the overall taste of our zucchini bread.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted and measured, this forms the base of our dry ingredients—it’s crucial for the bread’s rise and texture.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: We use this to balance the savory notes of zucchini with just the right sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent helps our bread rise perfectly; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Combined with baking soda, it adds extra lift to keep the loaf light and airy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A key spice that infuses our bread with cozy warmth—freshly ground if possible for maximum flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: This enhances all the flavors without overpowering; use fine sea salt for even distribution.
- 1 cup raisins: Finally, we fold in plump, juicy raisins for bursts of sweetness and chewy texture that make our zucchini bread a standout treat.
Equipment Needed
To bring our moist and flavorful Zucchini Bread with Raisins to life after gathering the ingredients, we rely on a few key tools that ensure smooth preparation and perfect results. Here’s a bulleted list of the essential equipment, organized by the order of use in the recipe process:
- Grater: A box grater or food processor grater for quickly shredding the 2 cups of zucchini into fine pieces, which helps maintain the bread’s tender texture.
- Large mixing bowls (at least two): One for combining wet ingredients like eggs and oil, and another for dry ingredients such as flour and sugar, allowing for easy blending without cross-contamination.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Standard sets for accurately measuring items like 1 cup of vegetable oil or 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ensuring precision in our baking.
- Whisk or wooden spoon: A sturdy whisk for beating the eggs and mixing the batter, or a spoon for gently folding in the 1 cup of raisins to preserve their plumpness.
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches): A non-stick or greased pan for pouring the batter and baking the bread to golden perfection.
- Oven: Preheated to 350°F for even baking, which typically takes 50-60 minutes depending on your oven’s performance—here’s a quick reference in the table below for approximate baking times based on common oven types:
| Oven Type | Approximate Baking Time (minutes) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Oven | 50-60 | Best for even heat distribution; rotate pan halfway for uniform results. |
| Convection Oven | 45-55 | Reduces time due to fan circulation; monitor closely to avoid over-browning. |
- Cooling rack: For allowing the baked bread to cool evenly after removing it from the oven, preventing sogginess and enhancing the overall texture.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly into the preparation steps.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating our moist and flavorful zucchini bread with raisins step by step.
Prep
Before we begin mixing, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything blends seamlessly for the best texture and taste. Start by grating 2 cups of zucchini—we recommend using a box grater for fine shreds that release moisture and add a subtle crunch to our bread. In a large mixing bowl, crack and beat 3 large eggs until smooth and frothy, then measure and add 1 cup of vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic base that promises a tender crumb.
Next, in a separate large bowl, whisk together the dry components: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination creates the perfect lift and spice. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a standard loaf pan with oil or butter to prevent sticking—aim for an even coat that lets the bread release easily after baking.
Mix
With our ingredients prepped, we now combine them to form a batter that’s irresistibly moist and speckled with sweetness. In the bowl with the wet ingredients, stir in the grated zucchini until fully incorporated, noting its fresh, vegetal essence that keeps our bread incredibly tender.
In another bowl, gently fold the dry mixture into the wet one using a whisk or wooden spoon—mix just until no streaks remain to avoid a tough texture. Finally, add 1 cup of raisins and stir them in carefully, distributing their plump, chewy bursts evenly for pockets of natural sweetness that elevate every bite.
Bake
Now we transfer our batter to the oven for that golden transformation. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even rise that results in a beautifully domed loaf.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F. Baking times can vary by oven type, so refer to the table below for approximate guidelines based on common setups:
| Oven Type | Approximate Baking Time | Key Indicators for Doneness |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Oven | 50-60 minutes | Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. |
| Convection Oven | 45-55 minutes | The top should be golden-brown and spring back when lightly pressed. |
| Toaster Oven | 40-50 minutes | Edges pull away slightly from the pan, and an irresistible aroma of cinnamon and zucchini fills the kitchen. |
Always check at the minimum time to prevent overbaking, preserving the bread’s soft, flavorful interior.
Cool
Once baked, we let the bread rest to set its structure and enhance its taste. Remove the loaf pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack for about 10 minutes, allowing the heat to escape gradually and the flavors to meld.
After this initial rest, carefully invert the bread onto the rack to cool completely for another 30-45 minutes. This step ensures a sliceable texture that’s not crumbly, letting the zucchini’s moisture and raisins’ sweetness shine through for the ultimate enjoyment.
Make-Ahead and Storage
As we perfect our zucchini bread with raisins recipe, let’s explore smart strategies for preparing it in advance and storing it to preserve its moist texture, sweet raisin bursts, and comforting cinnamon aroma. These tips ensure the bread remains fresh and flavorful, ready for any occasion.
Make-Ahead Tips
We recommend making this zucchini bread ahead to save time without sacrificing quality. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Prepare the batter in advance: Grate the zucchini and mix the wet ingredients up to 24 hours before baking. Store the combined wet mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready, stir in the dry ingredients and raisins quickly to maintain the batter’s fluffiness and prevent over-mixing.
- Bake and cool fully: If baking the loaf ahead, let it cool completely on a wire rack as outlined in our instructions. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil once cooled. This method keeps the bread’s tender crumb intact for up to 2 days at room temperature before serving.
- Freeze unbaked loaves: For longer planning, assemble the batter in a greased loaf pan, cover it securely, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking at 350°F as directed, ensuring the bread emerges with its signature golden crust and juicy zucchini essence.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the bread’s delightful moistness and flavor profile. Below, we break down the best methods based on duration, helping you enjoy our zucchini bread with raisins at its peak.
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container on the counter. | Keep it away from direct sunlight to retain the warm cinnamon scent and prevent drying. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Place the wrapped loaf in the fridge to slow moisture loss. | Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh-baked feel, reviving the plump raisins’ chewiness. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. |
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to restore the bread’s soft, zucchini-infused texture without sogginess.
By following these steps, we ensure your zucchini bread with raisins stays as irresistible as the day you baked it, making it easy to savor its wholesome goodness anytime.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve followed along with our zucchini bread with raisins recipe. It’s a simple way to turn fresh ingredients into a moist, flavorful treat that’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Baking this bread brings us joy, and we know it’ll do the same for you. Give it a go and share your twists—it’s all about creating memorable moments with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is zucchini bread and why is it popular?
Zucchini bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread made with grated zucchini, turning a garden vegetable into a delicious treat. It’s popular for its wholesome twist on traditional baking, adding sweetness from ingredients like raisins, and it’s a family favorite in American home cooking for its comforting taste and texture.
What are the main ingredients in this zucchini bread recipe?
The key ingredients include 2 cups grated zucchini, 3 large eggs, 1 cup vegetable oil, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 cup raisins. These combine for moisture, flavor, and a sweet, chewy texture.
How do I prepare and bake zucchini bread step by step?
Start by grating 2 cups of zucchini and preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix wet ingredients (eggs, oil, vanilla, zucchini) in one bowl and dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking soda, etc.) in another. Combine them, fold in raisins, pour into a greased loaf pan, and bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on a rack.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need a grater for zucchini, large mixing bowls for wet and dry ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk or spoon for mixing, a loaf pan for baking, and a preheated oven at 350°F. A cooling rack is essential for perfect texture after baking.
How long does it take to bake zucchini bread?
Baking time is about 50-60 minutes at 350°F, depending on your oven. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean. Allow extra time for conventional ovens versus convection, and always cool the bread fully on a rack.
Can I make zucchini bread ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, prepare the batter up to a day in advance and bake when ready. Store baked bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly to maintain moisture and flavor for fresh-tasting slices anytime.
Why add raisins to zucchini bread?
Raisins add natural sweetness, chewy texture, and a burst of flavor, enhancing the bread’s overall taste. They complement the moist zucchini base, making this version a standout family favorite while keeping it wholesome and easy to enjoy.