I love how this Blueberry Zucchini Bread turns simple, fresh ingredients into a moist, tender loaf bursting with juicy blueberries and warm spices. The zucchini keeps the bread incredibly soft, while the lemon zest adds a bright, fresh finish that makes every slice irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, not thawed)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
⅔ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
zest of 1 lemon (optional)
1 tablespoon flour (for tossing blueberries)
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). I grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper so I can easily lift the bread out later.
I shred the zucchini and gently squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This step helps keep the texture just right.
In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate large bowl, I whisk the eggs, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until everything is well combined.
I stir the shredded zucchini into the wet mixture. Then I slowly fold in the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined because I do not want to overmix the batter.
I toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to keep them from sinking, then gently fold them into the batter.
I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes. I check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
I let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 8–10 slices from one loaf, depending on how thick I cut them.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans when I want extra texture and crunch.
If I want a slightly healthier twist, I substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
For a brighter flavor, I increase the lemon zest slightly or add a light lemon glaze on top after the bread cools.
I also like swapping blueberries for raspberries for a slightly tangier version.
Storage/Reheating
I store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want it to last longer, I refrigerate it for up to 1 week.
For freezing, I wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. I freeze it for up to 3 months. When I am ready to enjoy it, I let it thaw at room temperature.
To reheat a slice, I warm it in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, which brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
I can use frozen blueberries, but I make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent excess moisture and color bleeding.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
I do not peel the zucchini. The skin is tender and blends right into the bread without affecting the texture.
Why do I need to squeeze the zucchini?
I squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the bread from becoming too dense or soggy.
Can I reduce the sugar?
I can slightly reduce the sugar, but I keep in mind that it may affect the overall sweetness and texture of the bread.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
I insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, I know the bread is done.
Conclusion
I find this Blueberry Zucchini Bread to be one of the most reliable and satisfying quick breads I make. It’s moist, flavorful, and easy to customize based on what I have in my kitchen. Whether I serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a light dessert, it always turns out delicious and comforting.
📖 Recipe:
Blueberry Zucchini Bread
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Blueberry Zucchini Bread is a moist, tender quick bread bursting with juicy blueberries, warm spices, and a hint of fresh lemon zest. The shredded zucchini adds incredible softness without overpowering the flavor, making it perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, not thawed)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
⅔ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
1 tablespoon flour (for tossing blueberries)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Shred the zucchini and gently squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Stir the shredded zucchini into the wet mixture.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Toss blueberries with 1 tablespoon flour, then gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Increase lemon zest or add a light lemon glaze for brighter flavor.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
