Ella Bella's Healthy Summer Squash Bread is the perfect guilt-free treat that marries wholesome ingredients with irresistible flavor. Packed with nutrient-rich grated summer squash, this moist and hearty bread showcases the natural sweetness of honey or maple syrup and a touch of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg. Made with whole wheat flour and rolled oats, it's a fiber-filled alternative to traditional quick breads, while unsweetened applesauce keeps it light and naturally moist. The recipe offers a customizable twist with optional add-ins like chopped walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips for a little extra crunch or indulgence. Ready in just over an hour, this nutritious loaf makes an excellent breakfast, snack, or dessert. Enjoy it sliced warm with a pat of butter or chilled alongside your favorite tea for a healthy, summer-inspired treat.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix well.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Gently fold the grated summer squash into the wet ingredients.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined; do not overmix.
If using, fold in the chopped nuts and/or dark chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Calories |
2389 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 93.5 g | 120% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.8 g | 139% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 370 mg | 123% | |
| Sodium | 1837 mg | 80% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 364.5 g | 133% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 46.5 g | 166% | |
| Total Sugars | 172.9 g | ||
| Protein | 67.8 g | 136% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 367 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 23.3 mg | 129% | |
| Potassium | 3178 mg | 68% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.