Moist, flavorful, and lightly spiced, this Apple Zucchini Bread topped with brown sugar frosting is the ultimate cozy treat. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, it’s soft, tender, and loaded with the goodness of apples and zucchini.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist & Flavorful: Zucchini adds natural moisture while apples bring a sweet, slightly tart flavor.

• Perfectly Spiced: Cinnamon and nutmeg give this bread a warm, comforting taste.

• Easy Brown Sugar Frosting: Sweet, creamy, and quick to prepare, it elevates the bread to dessert-level deliciousness.

• Great Make-Ahead Treat: Bake ahead for busy mornings or to serve at gatherings.

Ingredients

Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1½ cups shredded zucchini (squeezed of excess water)

• 1 cup shredded apple (such as Granny Smith)

• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Brown Sugar Frosting

• ¼ cup butter

• 2 tablespoons milk

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 cup powdered sugar

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 | Kcal: 300 kcal per serving

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in zucchini, apple, and walnuts (if using).

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar and milk, bringing to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Spread frosting over the cooled bread and allow it to set before slicing.

Tips & Variations

• Add More Fruit: Swap apples for pears, or add raisins for extra sweetness.

• Make It Nut-Free: Omit walnuts if desired.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for extra warmth.

• Mini Loaves: Divide batter into mini loaf pans for individual servings.

Storage & Reheating

• Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate for up to 1 week.

• Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving for a freshly baked feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the batter.

Do I have to use the brown sugar frosting?
No, the bread is delicious on its own or can be topped with cream cheese frosting.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I freeze this bread?
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Zucchini Bread with Brown Sugar Frosting is soft, moist, and bursting with flavor. The combination of apples, zucchini, warm spices, and creamy brown sugar frosting makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it’s sure to become a household favorite.