Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting is a delightful treat that combines the wholesome texture of zucchini with the sweetness of apples, all topped with a rich brown sugar frosting. This recipe yields a moist, flavorful bread that’s perfect for brunch, an afternoon snack, or a quick breakfast on the go. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful addition to any table.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 260
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
Why Make This Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting
This Apple Zucchini Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting experience. The inclusion of shredded zucchini keeps the bread incredibly moist, while the apples add a delightful sweetness and texture. Topping it with a luscious brown sugar frosting elevates the bread from simple to irresistible. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in some vegetables while indulging in a treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly snack or a dish to impress guests, this bread will surely delight everyone at the table.
How to Make Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing and flouring it to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients will create the perfect base for your bread.
Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend these ingredients well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combining Components
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense bread. Fold in the grated zucchini, diced apples, and nuts (if you choose to add them).
Step 5: Baking the Bread
Pour the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, it’s ready to cool.
Step 6: Making the Frosting
While the bread is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the brown sugar frosting over the top, making sure it seeps beautifully into any crevices.
How to Serve Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting
Serve slices of this delicious bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. For an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on the side or serving it alongside fresh fruit.
How to Store Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a few seconds.
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting
- Use fresh, firm apples for the best flavor and texture.
- For a deeper flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular melted butter in the frosting.
- Adjust the spices to your liking. If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a little more!
- Make sure your zucchini is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the bread.
Delicious Variations
- Spiced Nuts: Add a mix of spiced nuts or seeds to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk in the frosting.
- Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for additional sweetness and texture.
- Pumpkin Spice Twist: Swap out some of the apples for pumpkin puree to create a seasonal treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter result. -
How do I know when my bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is cooked through. -
Can I make this as muffins instead?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for muffins and keep an eye on them. -
What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are great choices, giving a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. -
Is the frosting necessary?
While the frosting adds richness, the bread is delicious on its own. You can enjoy it plain or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a lighter touch.
Conclusion
Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting is a charming recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your kitchen. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a personal treat, this bread offers the perfect blend of sweetness, texture, and a hint of spice. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful flavors and aromas it brings to your home. Happy baking!
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Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting
- Author: lydia
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful treat combining the wholesome texture of zucchini with the sweetness of apples, topped with a rich brown sugar frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing and flouring it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir until just combined. Fold in the zucchini, apples, and nuts.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan, whisk in the brown sugar and cream, boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Once the bread is cool, drizzle the frosting over the top.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze individual slices for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg




