Grated Zucchini Chocolate Bread in 80 Min

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x4 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Grate the zucchini using the fine holes of a box grater; use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture until the zucchini is damp but not dripping.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the squeezed zucchini until evenly distributed.
5. In a separate small bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet base. Mix only until the streaks of flour disappear to ensure a tender crumb.
7. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and optional walnuts using a spatula.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.