Quick Answer
The number of calories in a loaf of zucchini bread can vary greatly depending on the specific recipe, ingredients, and portion size. On average, a small loaf of zucchini bread contains around 2000-2500 calories total. A slice of zucchini bread (1/10th of a standard loaf) typically contains 200-250 calories.
Calories in Different Recipes
The calories in zucchini bread can range quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients used. Some recipes call for more oil or butter, while others use Greek yogurt or applesauce to reduce the fat and calories. Here are some estimates for calories in different zucchini bread recipes:
Basic Zucchini Bread
A standard quick bread made with oil or butter, eggs, flour, sugar, and zucchini.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 250 calories per slice, 2500 calories total
Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread
A lighter version made with nonfat Greek yogurt instead of some of the oil or butter.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 180 calories per slice, 1800 calories total
Applesauce Zucchini Bread
Another lower-calorie option using applesauce in place of some of the oil or butter.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 190 calories per slice, 1900 calories total
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
A sweetened version with chocolate chips added.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 270 calories per slice, 2700 calories total
Carrot Zucchini Bread
Shredded carrots boost the fiber and calories.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 230 calories per slice, 2300 calories total
Banana Zucchini Bread
Mashed bananas add moisture and sweetness.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 240 calories per slice, 2400 calories total
Lemon Poppy Seed Zucchini Bread
Tangy lemon and a pop of poppy seeds.
– Small loaf (10 servings): 210 calories per slice, 2100 calories total
As you can see, the calorie count per slice can range from 180-270 for different zucchini bread variations.
Calories from Major Ingredients
To understand where the calories are coming from, let’s take a look at the major ingredients in zucchini bread and how many calories are in each one:
Flour
Most zucchini bread recipes call for around 2 cups of all-purpose flour. There are about 400 calories total in 2 cups of white flour. Whole wheat flour has a similar calorie count.
Sugar
Granulated white sugar adds a lot of calories – there are 740 calories in 1 cup. Brown sugar or coconut sugar has a similar calorie density. Many recipes use 1 cup of sugar.
Eggs
Large eggs provide about 70 calories each. Zucchini bread often calls for 2 or 3 eggs.
Oil or Butter
The type of fat used (and amount) greatly impacts total calories. Butter and oils provide 100+ calories per tablespoon. Some recipes use 1/2 cup or more.
Zucchini
With only 20 calories per cup, shredded zucchini adds nutrients and moisture without substantially increasing calories. A standard recipe uses 2-3 cups.
Milk
Whole milk adds 50 calories per 1/4 cup. Nonfat milk provides 40 calories. About 1/4-1/2 cup is typical for zucchini bread.
Nuts or Chocolate Chips
These calorie-dense add-ins can add 150+ calories per 1/4 cup. They are optional in most recipes.
So in a typical loaf, the flour, sugar, oil/butter, and eggs are the biggest sources of calories. The zucchini and milk contribute minimal calories for the quantity used. Nuts and chocolate chips boost calories if added.
Serving Size and Calories
In addition to the recipe, the serving size of the zucchini bread also determines the number of calories consumed. Here are some common serving sizes and calorie amounts:
Thin Slice (1/12 loaf)
A thin slice from a longer, narrower loaf is around 130-150 calories.
Average Slice (1/10 loaf)
Cutting a standard small loaf into 10 even slices results in a 200-250 calorie serving.
Thick Slice (1/8 loaf)
A wider slice from the end piece may be 250-300 calories.
Half a Loaf
Cutting the loaf in half yields a portion of around 1000-1200 calories.
Whole Small Loaf
Consuming an entire standard small loaf of zucchini bread provides 2000-2500 total calories.
So the more you eat in one sitting, the more calories you will consume from zucchini bread. Sticking to a thinner slice helps control portion size and calories.
Tips for Reducing Calories in Zucchini Bread
If you are looking to lighten up your zucchini bread recipe, here are some tips for reducing calories per slice:
– Use applesauce or Greek yogurt instead of oil or butter. This can save over 100 calories per slice.
– Swap out white sugar for a low-calorie sweetener like erythritol or stevia extract.
– Choose whole wheat flour instead of white flour for a fiber boost.
– Use just 1-2 eggs instead of 3 eggs to trim 20-40 calories.
– Replace chocolate chips with raisins or dried fruit to eliminate fat.
– Add in shredded carrots or pumpkin for extra moisture instead of extra oil or butter.
– Skip nuts or reduce to 2 tablespoons to save on calories.
– Make mini loaves or muffins instead of a large loaf to control portion size.
– Enjoy a thin slice rather than a thick piece to minimize calories.
Nutrition Facts for Zucchini Bread
Beyond just calories, here is the full nutrition breakdown for a slice (1/10 loaf) of basic zucchini bread:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 240mg |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Calcium | 45mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Potassium | 140mg |
| Vitamin C | 3mg |
| Vitamin A | 160IU |
As you can see, zucchini bread is high in carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, providing 41g per slice. It also contains 8g of fat and 245 calories when made with oil and eggs. The 2g of fiber come mostly from the zucchini.
Health Benefits
While zucchini bread is fairly high in calories and carbs compared to many foods, it does provide some important nutrients and potential health benefits. Here are some of the key vitamins, minerals, and compounds found in zucchini bread:
Vitamin A
Zucchini is rich in vitamin A, providing 160IU (3% DV) per slice. Vitamin A supports eye health and immune function.
Vitamin C
With 3mg of vitamin C (5% DV), zucchini bread can help meet your daily needs for this antioxidant vitamin. Vitamin C boosts immunity and wound healing.
Potassium
A slice of zucchini bread contains 140mg of potassium (4% DV). This mineral is needed for fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction.
Fiber
The 2g of fiber come mostly from the zucchini. Fiber aids digestion and gut health. Whole wheat flour further boosts fiber.
Protein
You get 5g of protein per slice from the eggs and flour. Protein provides essential amino acids needed for growth and repair.
Antioxidants
Zucchini contains carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. These function as antioxidants to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Phytonutrients
Compounds like polysaccharides in zucchini may provide anti-diabetic effects by regulating blood sugar levels.
So while zucchini bread is high in refined carbs and sugar, it does deliver some key micronutrients, fiber, plant compounds, and antioxidants.
Weight Loss
Can you eat zucchini bread on a diet? While zucchini bread does contain more calories and carbs than many other breads and baked goods, it can potentially fit into a weight loss diet in moderation and when prepared with lighter ingredients.
Here are some tips for enjoying zucchini bread without sabotaging your weight loss goals:
– Stick to a thin slice rather than thick pieces. A thin slice has about 130-150 calories.
– Calculate it into your daily calorie allotment for the day. If eating a 250 calorie slice, reduce other foods accordingly.
– Opt for Greek yogurt or applesauce zucchini bread variations that are lower in calories.
– Pair your zucchini bread with protein like eggs or nuts to help fill you up.
– Enjoy it post-workout when your body can better utilize the carbohydrates for recovery.
– Make sure to track your portion accurately and avoid mindless overeating.
– Drink water with your zucchini bread to help fill your stomach.
– Substitute zucchini bread for higher calorie bakery items like muffins, scones, or croissants.
So while zucchini bread has a decent number of calories, it can be part of a balanced, lower calorie diet when consumed carefully in appropriate portions. Just be sure to account for the calories and enjoy it in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet and active lifestyle for best results.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the calorie content in zucchini bread:
Is zucchini bread healthy?
Zucchini bread contains more calories and refined carbs than many breads. However, it also provides nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. In moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet.
What is the lowest calorie zucchini bread recipe?
Recipes that use Greek yogurt and applesauce instead of some of the oil or butter are lowest in calories, providing around 180 calories per slice.
Is zucchini bread low carb?
No, a slice of zucchini bread contains around 41g of carbohydrates, mostly from the flour and sugar used to make it. Lower carb options include seed bread or almond flour bread.
Can I freeze zucchini bread?
Yes, zucchini bread can be baked, cooled completely, sliced, and then frozen in an airtight container for 2-3 months. Defrost slices before serving.
Should I squeeze water out of zucchini?
It’s best to drain excess moisture from shredded zucchini before adding it to bread. This prevents the bread from being gummy or wet.
The Bottom Line
Zucchini bread can range in calories depending on the recipe, ingredients, and portion size. On average, a slice of zucchini bread contains about 200-250 calories. To reduce calories, opt for Greek yogurt or applesauce in place of some oil or butter. And be mindful of your portion size, as calories add up quickly if you consume multiple slices. While zucchini bread is higher in calories than some other breads, it can offer nutrients and some potential health benefits in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
