Moist, citrusy, and packed with fresh zucchini, this Lemon Zucchini Bread brings a bright twist to classic quick bread. With a golden, slightly crisp top and tender crumb, it makes for a satisfying breakfast, wholesome snack, or light dessert that feels like sunshine on a plate.


The combination of shredded zucchini and fresh lemon zest creates an incredibly moist texture without feeling dense. It’s the kind of loaf that vanishes fast – especially when served slightly warm with a smear of butter or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Zucchini Bread
- Bursting with lemon flavor from both zest and juice
- Super moist thanks to grated zucchini (but not overly wet)
- One bowl, simple ingredients
- Freezes well and stays fresh for days
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert
What Kind of Zucchini Should I Use?
Any medium-sized zucchini will work great. No need to peel – the skin is soft and adds specks of color and texture. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture after grating to avoid a soggy loaf. If using extra-large garden zucchini, scoop out any large seeds before shredding.
Ingredients for the Lemon Zucchini Bread

Zucchini: Brings moisture and a lovely soft texture. Grate it finely and squeeze out liquid.
All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives structure to the loaf.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and a golden crust.
Baking Powder + Baking Soda: Both leaveners help the bread rise properly.
Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
Lemon Zest & Lemon Juice: The star citrus elements that brighten up every bite.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
Neutral Oil (like canola or vegetable): Makes the bread extra moist.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and aroma.
Greek Yogurt: Keeps the crumb tender and gives the bread a slight tang.
How To Make the Lemon Zucchini Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Zucchini
Grate the zucchini using the fine side of a box grater. Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. Set it aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gently stir with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Fold in the Zucchini
Add the drained zucchini and fold gently into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Pour the batter into a greased and parchment-lined 9×5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Lemon Zucchini Bread
This bread yields one loaf, making about 8 to 10 slices, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Serve it slightly warm with a pat of butter for breakfast or enjoy with a hot cup of tea as an afternoon treat.
How to Store Lemon Zucchini Bread
Let the bread cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- At Room Temperature: Keeps fresh for 2–3 days.
- In the Fridge: Lasts up to 1 week.
- In the Freezer: Wrap in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes! Yellow squash has a similar moisture content and mild flavor, making it a great substitute.
Do I need to peel the zucchini first?
No need. The peel is soft and blends right in while adding lovely green flecks.
Can I make muffins with this batter?
Absolutely. Divide into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or plain regular yogurt as a substitute.
Can I add a glaze on top?
Sure! Mix powdered sugar with a bit of lemon juice for a simple lemon glaze.
Want More Quick Bread Ideas?
If you love this moist lemon zucchini bread, you’ll probably enjoy these other fresh-baked favorites:
- Pumpkin Bread for cozy fall spices
- Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf with tart bursts
- Apple Bars when you’re craving a fruity snack
- Cream Cheese Pound Cake for a richer bite
- Lemon Gooey Bars if you can’t get enough lemony goodness
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest baking board so you can revisit it anytime.
And when you try it out, let me know in the comments below. Did you add a lemon glaze or serve it plain? Any fun add-ins like blueberries or poppy seeds?
I love seeing your creations and swaps. You can also check out more deliciously simple recipes like this on my Pinterest: Life With Livia.
Lemon Zucchini Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Start your day with a slice of this bright, moist Lemon Zucchini Bread. It’s the perfect blend of fresh citrus and tender zucchini, ideal for a quick breakfast, healthy snack, or light dessert. Made with pantry staples and bursting with lemon flavor, this easy recipe fits into your list of go-to breakfast ideas and easy recipe favorites.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (moisture squeezed out)
Instructions
1. Grate the zucchini on the fine side of a box grater. Place it in a clean towel and squeeze out excess moisture. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the bowl. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined.
4. Fold in the grated zucchini and stir until evenly distributed.
5. Pour batter into a greased and parchment-lined 9×5 inch loaf pan.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Always squeeze the zucchini well to avoid a soggy loaf.
Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until everything is combined.
Add a simple lemon glaze on top for extra citrusy sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: lemon zucchini bread, quick breakfast, easy loaf cake, healthy snack, baking with zucchini


