Zucchini Bread with Walnuts and Cinnamon

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Author: Natalie
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Zucchini bread slices with walnut pieces and cinnamon sticks on a farmhouse-style surface.

🍂 Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bread

This zucchini bread is more than just a way to use up extra zucchini—it’s a flavorful, nourishing loaf that delivers:

✅ Cozy cinnamon-spice flavor
✅ Soft, tender crumb with crunchy walnut bits
✅ Naturally moist from zucchini—no dairy or alcohol needed
✅ Simple ingredients, no mixer required
✅ Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or gifting

Whether you’re baking for the family or prepping ahead for guests, this loaf is always a crowd-pleaser.


🛒 Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • ½ tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ cup neutral oil (avocado, light olive oil, or coconut oil)

  • ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1½ cups grated zucchini (lightly squeezed of excess water)

Add-ins

  • ¾ cup chopped walnuts

  • Optional: 2 tbsp raisins or ¼ cup dairy-free chocolate chips


👩‍🍳 How to Make Zucchini Bread with Walnuts and Cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.

2. Grate the Zucchini

Use a box grater to grate zucchini (no need to peel). Place in a clean towel and gently squeeze to remove some moisture—don’t overdo it.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, sugars, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.

4. Add Zucchini

Stir in the grated zucchini until evenly distributed.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

 6. Mix It All Together

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring gently. Fold in chopped walnuts and any optional mix-ins.

7. Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle with a few extra chopped walnuts.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing.

🌟 Tips for the Best Zucchini Walnut Bread

Don’t Overmix

Overmixing leads to dense bread. Stir until just combined for the best crumb.

Keep It Moist, Not Wet

Zucchini adds natural moisture, but draining a little helps prevent sogginess.

Toast the Walnuts (Optional)

Toasting the walnuts for a few minutes in a dry pan intensifies their flavor and adds a wonderful crunch.

Use a Mix of Flours

Try half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier texture.


🧊 Storage & Freezing Instructions

  • Countertop: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 7 days.

  • Freezer: Wrap slices in parchment and freeze in a zip bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.


🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • Warm with a spread of almond or sunflower seed butter

  • Topped with a dollop of Greek-style coconut yogurt

  • As a side to your morning coffee or herbal tea

  • In a lunchbox for a wholesome snack

  • Sliced thick and wrapped as a hostess gift or holiday treat

❓ Zucchini Bread FAQ

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Can I use honey or maple syrup?

Yes—replace granulated sugars with equal parts honey or maple syrup, and reduce oil by about 2 tablespoons to balance moisture.

What if I don’t like walnuts?

You can leave them out or replace them with pecans, sunflower seeds, or shredded coconut.

Do I have to peel the zucchini?

Nope! The peel softens completely in baking and adds color and fiber.


🧾 Nutrition Info (per slice, approx. – based on 10 slices)

  • Calories: 220

  • Fat: 11g

  • Carbs: 27g

  • Sugar: 12g

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fiber: 2g

Note: Nutrition varies by specific ingredients used.

💬 Final Thoughts

This Zucchini Bread with Walnuts and Cinnamon is everything you love about fall baking: warm spice, hearty texture, and simple ingredients that come together beautifully. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like home—especially when the leaves are falling or you’re in need of a kitchen hug.

Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a friend in need of a pick-me-up, this bread is love in loaf form.

Natalie, a cheerful home chef, smiling in her bright kitchen while holding a mixing bowl and spoon — perfect for EasyFoodToMake
Natalie

Welcome to Easy Food To Make! I’m Natalie, the recipe creator and food lover behind this site. Here, I share easy, delicious, and comforting recipes perfect for busy days and cozy nights. Whether you're in the mood for a quick dinner, homemade bread, or a sweet dessert, you're in the right place. Let’s make something tasty together!

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