If you’re searching for a cozy, moist bread that perfectly captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Pumpkin Zucchini Bread Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on classic quick bread, blending the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with tender zucchini strands to create a loaf bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or part of a holiday spread, this bread is a warm hug in loaf form that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of white bowls and a white plate arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients for a recipe. There is a large white bowl filled with flour at the top center, next to a smaller white bowl with light brown sauce and another with light orange smooth puree. Below them, a white plate holds several small piles of different spices in brown and beige shades. Surrounding these, smaller white bowls contain nuts, seeds, and light gray powder. A green cucumber lies on the left side with two small white bowls next to it filled with dark amber liquid. The colors are mostly soft browns, whites, and greens. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple, down-to-earth ingredients is your first step toward baking a truly memorable loaf. Each one plays a vital role: the flours give structure, the spices add that unmistakable seasonal charm, and the pumpkin and zucchini bring incredible moisture and subtle sweetness that make this bread stand out.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the backbone for your bread, ensuring tender crumb and great rise.
½ cup whole wheat flour (or substitute with all-purpose): Adds nuttiness and a slight density that enriches the texture.
1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise and keeps it light and fluffy.
½ tsp baking powder: Works with baking soda for the perfect lift without heaviness.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon: The signature spice that brings warmth and depth.
½ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle earthy richness.
¼ tsp ground cloves: A pinch of this intensifies the autumnal spice profile beautifully.
1 cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling): Boosts moistness with natural sweetness and that iconic fall flavor.
1 cup shredded zucchini (moisture squeezed out): Adds moisture without overpowering, lending a tender bite.
½ cup brown sugar, packed: Imparts a deep caramel sweetness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to a lovely crust.
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil): Keeps the bread moist and soft for days.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give structure.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a fragrant note.
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and a toasty contrast.
½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional): For those sneaky, melty sweet surprises in every bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Zucchini Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper; this simple step will ensure your bread releases perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose and whole wheat flours, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blend creates the foundation for a spiced, flavorful bread that’s bursting with autumn goodness.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin purée, shredded zucchini (make sure to squeeze out extra moisture to prevent sogginess), brown and granulated sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This wet mix is packed with moisture and flavor, ensuring your bread stays soft and tender.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so keep it light and easy.

Step 5: Add Your Mix-Ins

Now’s the time to fold in your optional chopped nuts and/or mini chocolate chips. These little extras add a lovely texture and flavor surprise in every slice, but the bread is wonderful even without them.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The house will fill with an irresistible aroma that’s pure fall magic.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps it set and makes slicing much easier.

How to Serve Pumpkin Zucchini Bread Recipe

A loaf of pumpkin bread with a brown crust and sprinkled nuts on top is placed on a cooling rack over a white marbled surface. Three slices of the bread show a soft, moist texture with small green flecks inside, stacked slightly overlapping beside the main loaf. A light green knife rests diagonally on the left side of the cooling rack, and a pale pink cloth is softly draped in the upper right corner of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light spread of cream cheese adds just the right touch to elevate your serving. For a decadent experience, spread softened butter or a swirl of maple butter to complement the spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making mornings feel extra special. Serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced and hearty snack or breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice it thick for a rustic sandwich base, layering with nut butter and sliced bananas. You can also cube it and toast slices lightly, then layer with melted cheese and honey for a tasty sweet-savory treat that will surprise and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked and cooled, keep your pumpkin zucchini bread covered tightly at room temperature for up to three days to retain moisture. For longer freshness, store it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to one week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead treat. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To revive that freshly baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a toaster oven until just warmed through. A little dab of butter after reheating brings back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin purée because pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which might throw off the flavor balance and texture of this bread.

Do I really need to squeeze the zucchini? What happens if I don’t?

Yes, squeezing out excess moisture from the zucchini is essential; otherwise, the bread can turn out soggy and dense rather than tender and fluffy.

Can I substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Using all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat will yield a lighter texture, but the whole wheat adds a subtle nuttiness that’s lovely in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this pumpkin zucchini bread recipe vegan?

Yes, by swapping eggs for flax eggs or another egg replacer and using a plant-based oil and dairy-free mix-ins, you can make this loaf vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

How long will the Pumpkin Zucchini Bread Recipe keep fresh?

At room temperature, it stays fresh for about three days, and if refrigerated, it will keep well up to a week. Proper wrapping is key to maintaining its moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Zucchini Bread Recipe is a true celebration of fall’s best flavors in every bite. It’s easy enough for a weekday bake yet special enough for holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, this moist, spiced quick bread will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy mornings and snack times alike. Give it a whirl—you won’t regret it!