Name: Coconut Lime Zucchini Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup shredded zucchini (well-drained); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil; 1 tbsp lime zest; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaf stands out with its refreshing lime zing and the natural moisture from zucchini, all balanced by the mellow flavor of shredded coconut. It’s incredibly moist without being heavy, sweet but not overly so, and easy to make in just one bowl. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra zucchini and sneak some veggies into your day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Shredded zucchini (well-drained)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
Lime zest
Fresh lime juice
Sweetened shredded coconut
Vanilla extract

Optional for topping: powdered sugar glaze or extra shredded coconut

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if desired.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine sugar, eggs, oil, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Stir the shredded zucchini into the wet ingredients.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Fold in the shredded coconut gently.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optionally, drizzle with lime glaze or sprinkle with extra coconut before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 1 loaf, approximately 10 slices.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Vegan: Use flax eggs and plant-based yogurt or applesauce in place of eggs.
Extra Lime Kick: Add more zest or a lime glaze on top for stronger citrus flavor.
Nutty: Mix in chopped macadamia nuts or almonds for added texture.
Mini Loaves or Muffins: Divide the batter into smaller pans or muffin tins; adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for extended freshness.
To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Does zucchini need to be peeled before grating?

No, the skin is tender and adds color and nutrients. Just wash the zucchini well before grating.

How do I keep the loaf from being soggy?

Squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded zucchini using a clean towel or paper towels before adding it to the batter.

Can I use coconut milk in the recipe?

You can replace some of the oil with coconut milk, but it may slightly change the texture. Use light coconut milk to avoid greasiness.

Can I use lime extract instead of fresh lime?

Yes, but use it sparingly. Fresh lime zest and juice provide the best flavor.

What type of coconut should I use?

Sweetened shredded coconut is ideal for flavor and moisture. You can use unsweetened if preferred.

Can I make this loaf sugar-free?

You can experiment with sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit, though results may vary in texture.

Can I add a glaze to this loaf?

Yes, a simple lime glaze made with powdered sugar and lime juice adds extra brightness and sweetness.

Is this loaf freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Slice before freezing for easy grab-and-go portions.

Why did my loaf sink in the middle?

This can happen from overmixing, underbaking, or too much moisture. Be sure to measure ingredients carefully and test doneness with a toothpick.

Can I use zucchini from the freezer?

Yes, thaw and drain well before using, and be sure to remove excess moisture.

Conclusion

Coconut Lime Zucchini Loaf is a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome twist on classic quick breads. The combination of tropical coconut, tangy lime, and garden-fresh zucchini creates a moist and delicious treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast or dessert, this loaf brings a little taste of sunshine to any day.

Coconut Lime Zucchini Loaf

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A tropical-inspired quick bread made with shredded zucchini, lime zest and juice, and sweetened shredded coconut. Moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or snacking.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper if desired.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, oil, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Stir shredded zucchini into the wet mixture.
Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Gently fold in shredded coconut.
Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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.
Optional: drizzle with lime glaze or sprinkle with extra coconut before serving.

Notes

Be sure to squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini to avoid a soggy loaf.
Add a simple glaze using powdered sugar and lime juice for extra sweetness.
For a more intense lime flavor, increase the amount of lime zest.
Freezes well—slice before freezing for easy portions.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 240
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg