Zucchini Bread Instant Pot Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of health and indulgence; the grated zucchini somehow makes it feel like I’m making a responsible choice, even as the cinnamon and nutmeg work their cozy magic. Plus, using my Instant Pot to bake this bread is a total game-changer—it’s like my multitasking dreams came true, freeing up time for more of life’s adventures!

I adore creating zucchini bread within my Instant Pot because the end product is unbelievably moist and bursting with flavor. The union of grated zucchini, all-purpose flour, a whisper of cinnamon, and nutmeg achieves a magnificent balance.

I relish the way the walnuts and raisins—not to mention the boost of nutrients they provide—kept me guessing with their deliciousness and texture. I consider this recipe a healthful way to enjoy the benefits of baked zucchini.

Ingredients

Zucchini; Moisture; rich in fiber and vitamins.

Universal flour: Supplies framework; a provider of carbs.

Crystalline sugar: Provides the sweetness in the bread and is a rapid energy source.

Oil from vegetables: Provides moisture, plus a wealth of good-for-you fats.

Eggs: Holds components together; abundant in protein and minerals.

Baking powder and baking soda are two leavening agents that help bread rise.

Cinnamon & nutmeg: Imparts warmth; lends antioxidant properties.

Optional: Adds crunch; is a source of omega-3 fats.

Optional: Raisins
Nature’s candy.

Adds sweetness; also some fiber, vitamins.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 large zucchini, grated
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare a 7-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper and setting it aside.

2. In a substantial mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg by whisking them together.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and then combine them with the oil and the vanilla.

4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, then stir until just combined.

5. Carefully combine the grated zucchini, chopped walnuts, and raisins (if you’re using them) into the main mixture until they are evenly spread throughout.

6. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and use a spatula to smooth out the top.

7. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot. Set the trivet inside the Pot.

8. Ensure that the baking pan is stable atop the trivet.

9. Fasten the cover on the Instant Pot and confirm that the valve is in the sealing position. Choose the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting, then program the timer for 60 minutes, high pressure.

10. When the timer goes off, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. After that, you can turn the valve to the venting position and let any remaining steam escape. Then you can pull the bread out of the pot and let it cool before cutting.

Equipment Needed

1. 7-inch baking pan
2. Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)
3. Mixing bowl
4. Whisk
5. Separate bowl
6. Spatula
7. Instant Pot
8. Instant Pot trivet
9. Measuring cups
10. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of oil?Absolutely! Feel free to use a neutral oil, such as canola oil or melted coconut oil, in place of vegetable oil.
• How do I prepare the Instant Pot for baking?Set the trivet in the Instant Pot, making it sure it is level. Add 1 cup of water at the bottom of the pot. Prepare a dish that can withstand the heat and is appropriately sized to fit within the pot itself; this will be your baking dish. Pour the bread mixture into this dish. Level it out.
• How do I prevent the bread from being too moist?Before adding the grated zucchini to the batter, squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean cloth or paper towel.
• Can I skip the nuts or raisins?Indeed, you can leave out either the walnuts or the raisins—or both. And if you want to improvise, feel free to replace them with some other mix-ins, like chocolate chips. Adding texture is the key.
• What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?Whole wheat flour can be used if you want a healthier option, but it may alter the texture a bit. You could also try a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
• How long should I cook the zucchini bread in the Instant Pot?The cake setting generally takes around 60 minutes, with a natural pressure release after cooking.
• Do I need to adjust the recipe for a smaller Instant Pot?A mini Instant Pot might require a smaller baking dish, one that can fit comfortably inside the pot itself, which could also mean readjusting the cooking time. If you’ve only ever used a regular Instant Pot, a mini could seem a little baffling at first.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Coconut oil or melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil.
For a reduced-sugar option, use 1 cup of honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
When you find yourself without baking powder, substitute it with a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda.
If you prefer, you can use pecans in place of walnuts, or leave out nuts altogether.

Pro Tips

1. Squeeze Excess Moisture from Zucchini Before adding the grated zucchini to the batter, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This will prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.

2. Coat Add-ins with Flour If you choose to use walnuts and raisins, toss them in a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter. This will help prevent them from sinking to the bottom during cooking.

3. Use a Sling for Easy Removal Create a sling out of aluminum foil to place under the baking pan. This will make it easier to lift the pan out of the Instant Pot once the bread is done.

4. Adjust Sugar to Taste Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your zucchini, you might want to adjust the amount of sugar. You could reduce it slightly for a less sweet bread.

5. Experiment with Spices To add more depth to the flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger. These spices can complement the cinnamon and nutmeg beautifully.