Ina Garten zucchini bread has a way of bringing comfort in every bite. I still remember the first time I baked it for a weekend brunch, it filled the house with warm, cinnamon-spiced aromas and instantly brought smiles around the table. It’s that kind of recipe you pass down, tweak with your own touch, and never get tired of making.
Just like the version featured on 100 Days of Real Food, this loaf balances simplicity and flavor with every slice.
And with National Zucchini Bread Day 2025 just around the corner, there’s no better excuse to bake a fresh loaf. Let’s dive into why this moist and easy zucchini bread deserves a place in your kitchen today.
This is where the irresistible scent of freshly baked Ina Garten zucchini bread meets your countertop:
Ingredients and Preparation
This Ina Garten zucchini bread recipe is known for its perfect balance of moisture and texture. Just like any reliable ina garten zucchini bread recipe, the ingredients are simple but thoughtfully combined, making it a favorite for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.
Which ingredients make this bread so moist
Here’s what you’ll need to make this deliciously moist loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated white sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 4 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- ¾ cup vegetable oil (sunflower, avocado, or rapeseed)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or ½ tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1½ cups chopped walnuts
The zucchini and oil are what make this Ina Garten zucchini bread so rich and tender, while the cinnamon brings warmth to every bite.
Can I substitute ingredients without ruining the texture
Yes, with care. Avocado oil is a great swap, and almonds or dark chocolate chips can replace the walnuts. Vanilla bean paste adds a deeper aroma if you have it on hand. What matters most is preserving the batter’s moisture and consistency, too much liquid or too little structure can throw things off.
Want more technical tips and smart swaps? Check out our ultimate guide to baking zucchini bread.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
There’s something comforting about following a trusted method to make Ina Garten zucchini bread. These steps keep the process simple and the results reliable. If you’re looking for that golden crust and soft center, just like in the best zucchini bread Ina Garten bakes, follow along closely.
How to mix dry and wet ingredients properly
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and line an 8-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until smooth, then add the shredded zucchini, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients until fully combined. This gentle approach preserves the airy texture that makes a good zucchini bread Ina loaf so satisfying.
When is your zucchini bread perfectly baked
Next, fold in the chopped walnuts and pour the batter into the loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes in the center of the oven. It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential, it locks in the moisture that defines Ina Garten zucchini bread at its best.
This is the moment where the sweet scent of cinnamon and toasted walnuts fills your kitchen, and your zucchini bread Ina Garten is ready to be sliced and shared:
Tips and Variations
What makes this Ina Garten zucchini bread so loved is its versatility. The base recipe is moist, lightly spiced, and full of texture, but it’s also a canvas for your creativity. Whether you’re craving extra chocolate or looking for healthier twists, this loaf adapts beautifully.
How to make a chocolate version
To turn your Ina Garten zucchini bread into a chocolate dream, stir in ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and fold in dark chocolate chips with the walnuts. This transforms it into a decadent ina garten chocolate zucchini bread, moist, rich, and absolutely satisfying. It’s perfect for dessert or even breakfast with coffee.
Spices and add-ins you should try
Ground nutmeg or cardamom add depth to the cinnamon already in the mix. Chopped almonds, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut give this zucchini bread Ina Garten version new layers of flavor. Want something lighter? Try reducing the sugar slightly or using whole wheat flour. And if you love zucchini in savory dishes too, explore our ideas for zucchini with tomato.
No matter which variation you choose, the core of this Ina Garten zucchini bread remains: comfort, flexibility, and delicious results every time.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This Ina Garten zucchini bread isn’t just easy to bake, it stores beautifully too. Whether you’re planning ahead for the week or freezing slices for later, knowing how to keep your loaf moist is part of the magic.
How long can you store it
Once your Ina Garten zucchini bread has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in parchment paper or foil. It stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge, good for up to one week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to three months. It’s a great way to enjoy zucchini bread Ina style on busy mornings or cozy afternoons.
Best ways to serve it anytime of day
Try it lightly toasted for breakfast with a spread of nut butter, or enjoy a cold slice with tea in the afternoon. A dollop of whipped ricotta or cream cheese turns it into a dessert. The rich texture of Ina Garten zucchini bread holds up beautifully, no matter how you serve it.
Here’s how it looks when served simply and beautifully, ready to be enjoyed with your favorite drink:
Nutrition Facts
One of the best things about Ina Garten zucchini bread is how it feels like a treat, yet it’s built on wholesome ingredients. With the right balance of fats, fiber, and flavor, it’s a great option when you want something sweet but not overly indulgent.
Calories and macros per slice
Each serving of Ina Garten zucchini bread contains around 213 calories. It provides healthy fats from vegetable oil and walnuts, a decent dose of fiber from the zucchini, and protein from eggs. It’s satisfying without being heavy, and perfect for breakfast or a smart afternoon snack.
Is zucchini bread a healthy snack
It can be. While it contains sugar and flour, the use of real, minimally processed ingredients keeps it balanced. If you’re looking for a naturally sweet alternative, try our easy moist banana bread recipe. Still, a slice of homemade Ina Garten zucchini bread will always be better than a processed bar or store-bought cake.
Ready to Bake Again? Join the CookMinutes Kitchen
This Ina Garten zucchini bread recipe brings together everything we love about baking: comfort, simplicity, and deep, satisfying flavor. Whether you followed it to the letter or added your own twist, you’ve baked something special, one slice at a time.
We hope this Ina Garten zucchini bread becomes a regular in your kitchen, just like it has in ours. When you’re ready for more quick, flavorful recipes, stop by CookMinutes blog page. And don’t miss our latest creations on Facebook.
Need tips on how to store your bakes safely? Visit the official Harvard Nutrition Source food safety page for up-to-date guidance.
FAQ About Ina Garten Zucchini Bread
What ingredients are in zucchini bread?
The classic Ina Garten zucchini bread recipe includes flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, eggs, oil, vanilla, shredded zucchini, and chopped walnuts. These create a moist, warmly spiced loaf that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Do I leave the skin on zucchini for zucchini bread?
Yes, and that’s what makes this Ina Garten zucchini bread so effortless. Just rinse the zucchini and grate it, no peeling required. The skin softens as it bakes and helps retain moisture and nutrients.
Does Joanna Gaines have a zucchini bread recipe?
She does, but her version is quite different. If you're looking for something richer and nuttier, the Ina Garten zucchini bread recipe stands out with its cinnamon warmth and satisfying crumb.
What else can you put in zucchini bread?
This loaf is endlessly adaptable. You can fold in chocolate chips, coconut, dried cranberries, or even swirl in nut butter. For a deeper flavor, try the Ina Garten chocolate zucchini bread variation, it’s a game changer.
What pairs best with zucchini?
In savory cooking, zucchini works well with tomatoes, garlic, lemon, and basil. But in baking, as seen in this Ina Garten zucchini bread, it pairs beautifully with cinnamon, vanilla, and crunchy walnuts.
Ina Garten Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Moist and flavorful zucchini bread inspired by Ina Garten, with walnuts, cinnamon, and simple ingredients. Perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups granulated white sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
3 to 4 large eggs
2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
¾ cup vegetable oil (sunflower, avocado, or rapeseed)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract or ½ tsp vanilla bean paste
1½ cups chopped walnuts
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line an 8-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat eggs. Stir in zucchini, oil, and vanilla.
Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
Fold in chopped walnuts evenly.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve once fully cooled.
Notes
To make a chocolate version, add ½ cup cocoa powder to the dry mix and stir in dark chocolate chips. You can also freeze slices for quick breakfasts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 213
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
No comment yet, add your voice below!