If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread is exactly what you need. Packed with moist shredded zucchini and a luscious cinnamon swirl running through, this bread strikes the perfect balance between comfort and a subtle veggie boost. It’s a delightful twist on classic zucchini bread with a touch of sweet spice that keeps everyone reaching for just one more slice.

Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create something irresistibly delicious. Each component plays a role in delivering the bread’s tender crumb, delightful moisture, and that signature cinnamon swirl that adds a burst of flavor and texture.

4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect crumb.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just right without overpowering.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully for a light texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acid to create tenderness.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
2 cups shredded zucchini: Adds moisture and a subtle earthiness, keeping the bread wonderfully soft.
⅔ cup unsalted butter, melted: Richness that makes the bread tender and flavorful.
1 Tablespoon cinnamon: Essential for that warm, inviting spice in the bread and swirl.
½ cup milk: Contributes moisture and helps bring the batter together smoothly.
4 large eggs: Bind everything and add richness.
1 cup all-purpose flour (for swirl): Adds texture and forms the swirl layer.
1 cup light brown sugar, packed (for swirl): Brings a deep, caramel sweetness to the swirl.
1 cup unsalted butter, melted (for swirl): Infuses richness and moisture into the cinnamon swirl.
1 Tablespoon cinnamon (for swirl): Delivers that signature cinnamon punch through the swirl layer.
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): For a sweet, smooth finish on top.
2 Tablespoons milk (for glaze): Thins the glaze to a perfect drizzle consistency.
1 teaspoon cinnamon (for glaze): Adds a finishing touch of spice on top.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare two 9-inch loaf pans by lining the bottom with parchment paper or giving them a thorough spray with baking spray. This ensures your bread will release easily after baking and keeps the crusts beautifully soft.

Step 2: Mix the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, gather all the ingredients for the bread itself—including the shredded zucchini, melted butter, sugar, eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until fully combined and smooth. This is the base that will give you moist, tender bread with a lovely crumb.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a smaller bowl, combine the swirl ingredients: flour, packed light brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until fully blended. The swirl mixture has a crumbly, rich texture and will create that irresistible ribbon of cinnamon running through the loaf.

Step 4: Layer Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the zucchini bread batter evenly into your prepared loaf pans. Then, spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Top with the remaining batter, and finish by spreading the last of the cinnamon swirl on top. This layering guarantees each slice has beautiful stripes packed with cinnamon flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown. Let the loaves cool in the pans for around 10 minutes before carefully removing them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Drizzle the Cinnamon Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth to create a sweet glaze. Drizzle generously over the cooled loaves for an extra touch of sweetness and that gorgeous finishing look. Your Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread

Garnishes

While the glaze adds beautiful flair, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for a lovely presentation. Toasted chopped nuts on top add a crunchy surprise that pairs wonderfully with the soft bread.

Side Dishes

This bread is fantastic on its own, but if you want to turn it into a complete snack or breakfast moment, serve it alongside a cup of warm coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk. Soft cream cheese or yogurt on the side enhances the bread’s moisture and complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your bread thick and arrange it in a basket lined with a pretty cloth for a charming brunch spread. Or toast slices lightly and spread with softened butter or honey for a simple yet irresistible snack. You can even cut it into cubes and serve with fruit and whipped cream for a fun dessert twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep your Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread fresh and moist. It will stay delicious at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To warm up your bread, pop slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly. This refreshes the flavors and melts the glaze slightly, recreating the freshly baked warmth you love.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash has a similar moisture content and mild flavor, so it works just as well in this Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread recipe without changing the texture or taste.

Do I need to peel the zucchini before shredding?

There’s no need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds nice color and nutrients, and it softens while baking without affecting the bread’s texture.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that’s designed for breads, you can make a delicious gluten-free Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread. Just check your baking powder and soda to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

What type of cinnamon is best for this recipe?

Ground cinnamon is perfect here. You can use either Ceylon (true cinnamon) for a delicate flavor or Cassia cinnamon for a stronger, spicier kick—both add warmth and sweetness to the bread.

Can I double this recipe to make more loaves?

Definitely! This recipe scales up well. Just double all ingredients and bake in extra loaf pans. Just keep an eye on baking time, as it may increase slightly depending on your oven and pan sizes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread that fills a kitchen with comforting aromas and brings people together. Whether you’re baking for a casual breakfast, a sweet snack, or a lovely gift, this recipe delivers moist texture and a perfect balance of sweet cinnamon goodness in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite!

Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 27 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves (about 12 slices each) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread is a moist and flavorful treat featuring tender zucchini bread with a luscious cinnamon sugar swirl throughout and a sweet cinnamon glaze on top. Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, this bread balances the subtle earthiness of zucchini with warm cinnamon spices and sugary sweetness, making it an irresistible homemade baked good.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of two 9-inch loaf pans with parchment paper or grease them thoroughly with baking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Mix Bread Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, shredded zucchini, melted butter, cinnamon, milk, and eggs. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mixture: In a separate small bowl, blend together the flour, light brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until the mixture is uniform and well combined. Set aside.
Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the zucchini bread batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Then top with the remaining batter, followed by the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture to create layers and swirls throughout.
Bake the Bread: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. Check occasionally toward the end to avoid over-baking.
Cool the Bread: Remove the loaves from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then gently remove the breads from the pans and place them on wire racks to cool completely before glazing.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk to reach desired consistency if necessary.
Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cinnamon glaze evenly over the cooled zucchini bread loaves. Slice and enjoy this moist, cinnamon-packed treat!

Notes

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, but the texture may be denser.
Ensure zucchini is well shredded but not overly wet to avoid soggy bread; lightly pat shredded zucchini with a paper towel if necessary.
The cinnamon swirl mixture can be mixed with a fork or your hands to create crumbly clusters if desired.
To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before glazing.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Bread, Snack, Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American