Pistachio Zucchini Bread
Pistachio zucchini bread is a moist, tender loaf that combines fresh zucchini with the delicate flavor and crunch of pistachios. It’s easy to make and works wonderfully as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or simple dessert.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups grated zucchini
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup chopped pistachios
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if desired.
- Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Gently squeeze out some of the excess moisture, but don’t dry it completely—the moisture helps keep the bread tender.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla, and Greek yogurt until smooth and well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the finished loaf dense.
- Add zucchini and pistachios: Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped pistachios until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fill the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle a few extra chopped pistachios over the top if desired.
- Bake: Bake for approximately 50–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Helpful Tips
Do not squeeze all the moisture out of the zucchini, as some moisture helps create a soft loaf. If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the final part of baking.
Serving Ideas
Enjoy slices plain, with a little butter, or topped with cream cheese. The bread is especially delicious slightly warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
