Ingredients:

  • 2cup finely grated zucchini
  • 0.5cup neutral oil
  • 0.5cup light brown sugar
  • 0.5cup granulated sugar
  • 1large large egg
  • 1tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1.25cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1tsp baking soda
  • 0.5tsp baking powder
  • 0.5tsp sea salt
  • 1cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Heat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. The low temperature is key for a deep loaf to cook through without drying out the edges.
  2. Grate the zucchini using the small hole side of a box grater until you have 2 cups. Do not peel the zucchini and do not squeeze out any of the liquid; we need that hydration.
  3. Whisk together the neutral oil, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and combined.
  4. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the sugar mixture. Beat vigorously until the mixture is slightly emulsified.
  5. Sift the flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt directly over the wet ingredients. Sifting prevents cocoa lumps and aerates the dry ingredients for a better crumb.
  6. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet using a spatula. Stop when just a few streaks of flour remain to avoid overworking the gluten.
  7. Add the grated zucchini and 3/4 cup of the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter. Gently fold them in until evenly distributed.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips evenly over the top.
  9. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached.
  10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before using the parchment overhang to lift it onto a wire rack to cool completely.