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Zucchini bread in an air fryer? Yes, it’s possible—and it’s absolutely delicious. If you love classic zucchini bread but dread turning on your oven in the summer heat, this Air Fryer Zucchini Bread recipe is your new favorite hack.
This method creates a moist, lightly spiced loaf with a golden crust using less energy and no preheating your entire kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for two or batch prepping with your countertop appliance, this air fryer version is ideal for small households, dorms, or anytime convenience.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Zucchini Bread
✅ Oven-Free Baking: Keep your kitchen cool, especially in warmer months
✅ Moist & Fluffy Texture: Just as good as oven-baked
✅ Energy-Efficient: Uses less power than a full-size oven
✅ Great for Small Batches: Ideal for small families or personal loaves
✅ Versatile: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or make it dairy-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp cinnamon
⅛ tsp nutmeg (optional)
¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
1 egg
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
3 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce
½ tsp vanilla extract
¾ cup grated zucchini (moisture squeezed out)
Optional Add-ins
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
1 tbsp flaxseeds or chia seeds
Tools & Equipment
Air fryer with baking function (preferably one with a temperature setting)
Mini loaf pan or 6-inch round baking tin that fits inside your air fryer basket
Parchment paper or nonstick spray
Mixing bowls and whisk
Grater for zucchini
How to Make Zucchini Bread in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat Air Fryer (If Needed)
Some models require preheating. If yours does, preheat to 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Grate & Drain Zucchini
Grate your zucchini using the large side of a box grater. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess water. You want it damp but not wet.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, brown sugar, maple syrup, oil, yogurt (or applesauce), and vanilla until smooth.
Step 5: Combine the Batter
Add dry ingredients to the wet, stirring just until combined. Fold in the zucchini and any mix-ins (nuts, chocolate, etc.).
Step 6: Prepare the Pan
Grease your air fryer-safe loaf or cake tin with oil or line it with parchment paper. Pour in the batter, smoothing the top.
Step 7: Air Fry the Bread
Place the tin into the air fryer basket. Bake at 320°F (160°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
🔄 Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Serving Ideas
Spread slices with nut butter or dairy-free cream cheese
Pair with fresh fruit and iced tea for a light breakfast
Add a drizzle of maple glaze for dessert presentation
Toast leftovers and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
Room Temperature
Store wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week—great for prepping ahead.
Freezer-Friendly
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil
Freeze for up to 2–3 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving
Variations to Try
Dairy-Free Option
Replace yogurt with applesauce or non-dairy yogurt
Use plant-based chocolate chips if adding
Vegan Option
Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water, set for 10 minutes)
Gluten-Free Option
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for best results
FAQs About Air Fryer Zucchini Bread
Can I use a regular loaf pan in the air fryer?
Only if it fits inside the air fryer basket. Mini loaf pans or round tins (6-inch) work best.
Do I need to adjust the time for different air fryer brands?
Yes. Air fryer wattage varies. Start checking at the 25-minute mark, and use a toothpick to test doneness.
Why is my bread soggy in the middle?
Zucchini may not have been drained enough. Always squeeze out excess moisture. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer so hot air can circulate.
Can I make muffins instead?
Absolutely! Use silicone muffin cups or a muffin tin that fits your air fryer. Reduce bake time to 12–15 minutes.
What size pan fits best in an air fryer?
Most standard basket air fryers fit 6-inch round pans or mini loaf pans. Check your model’s specifications.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered whether you can bake bread in an air fryer, let this Air Fryer Zucchini Bread recipe be your answer. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy—perfect for those warmer days when you want homemade baked goods without the heat.
Whether you’re cooking in a small space, prepping for a picnic, or just trying something new, this air fryer twist on a classic is sure to become a regular in your kitchen.
