Chocolate Swirl Zucchini Bread with Greek Yogurt
A moist, tender quick bread that cleverly incorporates shredded zucchini for extra moisture while maintaining rich chocolate flavor. The applesauce and Greek yogurt create a lighter texture without sacrificing taste, while warm spices like cinnamon and cloves add depth. The dramatic chocolate swirl running through each slice makes this perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. This recipe produces one generous loaf that slices beautifully and freezes well for future enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray
- 2
Whisk together sugar, applesauce, Greek yogurt, vanilla, and eggs in a large bowl until well mixed
- 3
Stir in flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and cloves with wooden spoon until just combined
- 4
Fold in shredded zucchini
- 5
Melt chocolate chips in microwave for one minute, stirring after 30 seconds until smooth
- 6
Take one cup of zucchini batter and stir into melted chocolate
- 7
Pour regular zucchini batter into prepared loaf pan
- 8
Spoon chocolate batter on top and swirl carefully with butter knife without overmixing
- 9
Bake for 44 to 48 minutes until toothpick inserted near edges comes out clean
- 10
Cool completely in pan before removing
- 11
Run knife around edges, invert pan and tap bottom to remove loaf
Tips
Use two 8x4 inch pans instead of one 9x5 inch pan if you prefer smaller loaves with shorter baking time.
Slice and freeze individual portions in sandwich bags for convenient grab-and-go breakfast options.
Don't overmix when creating the swirl pattern - gentle swirls preserve the distinct chocolate and plain layers.
Good to Know
Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored wrapped at room temperature.
Serve sliced at room temperature, optionally toasted with butter.
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix the swirl to avoid muddy appearance instead of distinct chocolate ribbons.
Don't overbake or bread will become dry - center should still be slightly jiggly when removed.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt provides thicker consistency and more protein. Regular yogurt may make the batter slightly thinner but will still work well.
How long does this bread keep fresh?
Wrapped tightly, it stays fresh at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for 1 week. Individual slices freeze well for up to 3 months.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, divide batter among 12 muffin cups and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. Create mini swirls in each muffin cup.