SOUTHERN ZUCCHINI BREAD

Here’s a classic Southern Zucchini Bread:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated zucchini
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional; pecans or walnuts work well)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a grater. You can leave the skin on. After grating, squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are frothy. Add in the vegetable oil or melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and ground cinnamon.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the zucchini bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve: Once cooled, slice the zucchini bread and serve. It’s delicious on its own or with a spread of butter. Enjoy!

This Southern Zucchini Bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day!