Nutella Zucchini Bread – The Best 9-Part Chocolate Twist Guide

Table of Contents: Nutella Zucchini Bread

Nutella Zucchini Bread

Combining Nutella’s creamy, chocolate-hazelnut goodness with the moist richness of zucchini bread results in a dessert that’s both indulgent and sneakily nutritious. Nutella zucchini bread isn’t just a fun kitchen experiment—it’s a deliciously moist, flavorful twist on a classic bake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an after-dinner treat.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore what makes Nutella zucchini bread special, share a tried-and-tested recipe, explain why zucchini works so well in baking, and even tackle storage, variations, and the most commonly asked questions. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned kitchen pro, you’ll find everything you need to bake the best Nutella zucchini bread ever.

Looking for inspiration? Try this sweet grilled peach recipe to pair with your zucchini bread.

What is Nutella Zucchini Bread?

The sweet fusion of chocolate and vegetables

Nutella zucchini bread is a modern twist on the classic zucchini bread—a baked loaf that sneaks in shredded zucchini to create a moist texture and subtle flavor. What makes this version stand out is the generous swirl of Nutella that adds deep chocolate richness with a hint of hazelnut.

While it may sound like an unusual pairing, the blend of Nutella and zucchini is both smart and delicious. Zucchini brings moisture without making the bread taste “veggie-like,” while Nutella lends a creamy sweetness that elevates the entire loaf.

Zucchini has long been a favorite in healthier baked goods. Its high water content and neutral flavor profile make it ideal for adding texture and volume without the need for excessive fat or sugar. And Nutella? It’s a favorite topping that’s been reborn as a baking ingredient.

Why zucchini works so well in sweet bread

The beauty of zucchini in baking lies in its moisture content. Zucchini is over 90% water, which means it keeps baked goods soft and tender without overpowering the flavor. It practically melts into the bread as it bakes, leaving no green bits behind—just a perfectly rich crumb and soft texture.

From a nutritional standpoint, zucchini adds fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. It’s a clever way to add nutrients to a sweet treat. So when paired with a rich ingredient like Nutella, zucchini helps balance indulgence with subtle nutrition.

Don’t miss our peach ice cream guide if you’re serving this bread as part of a summer dessert spread.

Key Ingredients for Nutella Zucchini Bread

Basic ingredients in traditional zucchini bread

Let’s break down what goes into a great zucchini bread. Here are the essential base ingredients:

Ingredient	Purpose
All-purpose flour	Structure and texture
Eggs	Binding and richness
Sugar	Sweetness and browning
Oil or butter	Moisture and tenderness
Baking powder/soda	Leavening for rise
Salt & cinnamon	Flavor balance
Grated zucchini	Moisture and a soft, rich crumb

Zucchini should be shredded finely and patted dry to avoid excess water in the batter. No peeling required—it melts right in during baking.

What makes this version unique: Nutella, chocolate chips, and more

What separates this from a typical loaf is the Nutella swirl. Depending on your preference, you can fold Nutella directly into the batter or layer it between scoops of batter in the pan and swirl with a knife.

Some bakers add semi-sweet chocolate chips for even more indulgence. A pinch of espresso powder can also enhance the chocolate notes without overpowering the flavor.

Other tasty additions might include:

• Crushed hazelnuts for texture
• Greek yogurt for extra moisture
• A splash of vanilla extract

Discover great ideas like this peach fritter recipe to complement your Nutella zucchini bread with fruity sides.

Step-by-Step Nutella Zucchini Bread Recipe

Preparation and baking tools you’ll need

Here’s what you’ll need before you start mixing:

• 2 mixing bowls (wet and dry ingredients)
• Grater for zucchini
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×5 loaf pan
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula and butter knife for swirling

Optional but helpful:

• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Instructions for mixing, baking, and cooling

Here’s a simplified, foolproof Nutella zucchini bread recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (patted dry)
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup Nutella (plus more for swirling)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla, and oil until smooth.
4. Stir in grated zucchini into the wet mix.
5. Add dry ingredients gradually, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Nutella (warm slightly for easier swirling) and chocolate chips if using.
7. Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Add a layer of Nutella, then the rest of the batter. Swirl gently with a butter knife.
8. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Looking for more dessert twists? Don’t miss our guide on making white chocolate strawberries.

Benefits of Adding Zucchini to Desserts

Nutritional value of zucchini

Zucchini is packed with health benefits that make it an ideal stealth ingredient in sweet treats. It contains:

• Vitamin C to support immunity
• Potassium to help regulate blood pressure
• Dietary fiber to promote digestive health
• Antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health

In baking, it functions like applesauce or bananas—boosting texture without overpowering flavor. That’s why you’ll find zucchini in everything from muffins to brownies.

How zucchini adds moisture without altering flavor

The reason zucchini shines in baking is its water content and subtle taste. It keeps baked goods soft and tender, especially in recipes with cocoa or chocolate, where its flavor blends seamlessly.

Once baked, no one will know it’s there—except for the incredibly moist texture it brings to every slice.

Nutella – More Than Just a Spread

Is Nutella meant for bread or baking?

Nutella started as a bread spread, but it’s evolved into a go-to baking ingredient. With a blend of hazelnuts, sugar, and cocoa, Nutella offers a creamy richness that complements both sweet and savory recipes.

Its soft consistency makes it easy to swirl into batters or use as a filling or topping. In zucchini bread, it enhances every bite with a rich, nutty sweetness.

Substitutions and chocolate hazelnut alternatives

If you don’t have Nutella or prefer a different brand, try:

• Justin’s Chocolate Hazelnut Butter
• Nocciolata Organic Hazelnut Spread
• Homemade Nutella using roasted hazelnuts and cocoa

You can also sub in almond butter or peanut butter if you want a twist. But for that signature hazelnut-chocolate flavor, Nutella is unmatched.

Variations of Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Adding nuts, coconut, or peanut butter

There’s plenty of room to experiment. Some popular add-ins:

• Chopped hazelnuts or walnuts for crunch
• Shredded coconut for a tropical twist
• Swirls of peanut butter or almond butter
• Dark chocolate chunks for deeper flavor

Mix these in or layer them between swirls of batter for flavor variety in every bite.

Turning the recipe into muffins or mini loaves

If you’re baking for a crowd or packing lunchboxes, muffins or mini loaves are ideal:

• Fill muffin cups ¾ full and bake for 18–22 minutes
• Mini loaf pans take about 35–40 minutes

Same recipe, same flavor—just more portable.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Freezing Tips

How long Nutella zucchini bread lasts

Stored properly, Nutella zucchini bread can stay moist and delicious for:

• Room temp: 2–3 days in an airtight container
• Refrigerator: Up to 7 days (wrap tightly)
• Freezer: 2–3 months (wrapped and bagged for freezer)

Freezing and reheating instructions

To freeze:

• Let bread cool fully
• Wrap in plastic wrap + foil or airtight freezer bag
• Label with the date

To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave individual slices for 20–30 seconds.

Common Baking Mistakes and Fixes

Why your bread might be too dense or soggy

Common issues include:

• Too much zucchini moisture: Always pat dry your grated zucchini
• Overmixing: Stir just until ingredients are combined
• Incorrect oven temp: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy

Dense bread usually means too much flour or too little leavening. Soggy bottoms? Could be underbaking or not letting the loaf cool before slicing.

Tips for achieving a perfect texture every time

• Use fresh baking powder/soda
• Do not open the oven door while baking
• Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 mins, then move to a wire rack
• Use parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Best drinks to pair with Nutella zucchini bread

This moist, chocolatey bread pairs beautifully with:

• A cup of bold coffee or espresso
• Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream
• Chai or vanilla tea
• Cold milk or oat milk for a classic twist

How to present and garnish for guests

Elevate your presentation with:

• A light dusting of powdered sugar
• Drizzle of warm Nutella or chocolate ganache
• Fresh berries or banana slices on the side
• Served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

It also makes a thoughtful gift—wrap it in parchment and tie with a ribbon!

People Also Ask: Nutella Zucchini Bread

Conclusion: Nutella Zucchini Bread

Nutella zucchini bread is a game-changer for anyone who loves chocolate, baking, or sneaky ways to eat more veggies. It’s rich, moist, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you enjoy it with morning coffee or serve it as dessert, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Check out this easy peach fritter recipe to complement your next bake session.

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