If you love the comforting familiarity of classic quick breads but want a fun, portable twist, you have to try this Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe! It combines the moist, tender crumb of zucchini bread with the sweet, fruity flavor of banana bread, all baked and served in handy little Mason jars. This not only makes for an adorable presentation but also keeps your bread fresh for longer. Whether you’re packing breakfast for work, gifting something homemade, or just craving a cozy snack, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and convenience all in one delightful package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe really comes down to choosing simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one has a special role—from the grated zucchini adding moisture and subtle earthiness, to the ripe bananas infusing sweetness and richness.
- Grated zucchini (1 1/2 cups): Adds moisture and a lovely green flecked texture without overpowering flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation that holds your bread together with just the right density.
- Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the bread delicately without making it too sugary.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings a touch of caramel flavor and moistness to the batter.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking soda to create a perfect crumb.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and aromatic depth that makes every bite comforting.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and heightens flavor.
- Egg (1): Binds everything together for a tender texture.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the bread moist and soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant note that complements both banana and zucchini.
- Ripe bananas, mashed (2): Provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture perfect for banana bread.
- Butter, melted (1/2 cup): Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the banana batter.
How to Make Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sterilize Your Jars
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Meanwhile, make sure to wash and sterilize your Mason jars and their lids thoroughly. This step is crucial because baking and storing the bread in sterilized jars helps keep the bread fresh and safe to eat for a longer time.
Step 2: Create Separate Batters
In two separate bowls, prepare the zucchini bread batter and the banana bread batter individually. Mixing each batter separately allows each flavor to shine and ensures the right moisture levels and leavening for both types of breads.
Step 3: Layer or Combine Batters in Jars
Pour the batters into each jar, filling them halfway to allow room for the bread to rise. You can choose to layer the zucchini and banana batters for a pretty marbled effect or gently stir them together for a combined swirl of flavors. This step makes these little jars all the more visually charming and tasty.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled jars carefully in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, your bread is perfectly baked. The lower temperature and jar environment allow the bread to cook evenly and stay incredibly moist.
Step 5: Seal and Cool
Right after taking the jars out of the oven, seal them tightly with their sterilized lids. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. This sealing process creates a vacuum effect, keeping your zucchini and banana bread fresh for weeks and making it ideal for gifting or snacking on the go.
How to Serve Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
These jars look delightful on their own, but sprucing them up with a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans, or even a dollop of cream cheese frosting can turn your bread into an impressive treat. Fresh fruit slices on the side also complement the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this bread is dense and filling, it pairs wonderfully with a light side like a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. A cup of warm chai tea or a rich coffee also makes an ideal beverage companion, enhancing the spices and sweetness found in the bread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe as gifts or party favors? Tie a rustic twine bow around the neck of each jar and attach a personalized tag with the bake date or a sweet note. For a brunch spread, line them up on a wooden board with matching spoons, creating an inviting display sure to impress friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, no worries! Keep your sealed jars stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Thanks to the airtight seal, the bread stays moist and fresh for several weeks, making it convenient for quick snacks or last-minute breakfasts.
Freezing
You can also freeze your jars for longer storage. Just make sure the jars are freezer-safe and seal them well. When you want to enjoy your bread later, thaw them at room temperature while still sealed to maintain moisture and flavor.
Reheating
When it’s time to eat, simply remove the lid and warm your jarred bread in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop it into a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. Enjoy it warm and comforting, just like freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I use glass jars other than Mason jars?
Absolutely! The main thing is that the jars are oven-safe and have lids that can seal tightly after baking. Just make sure to sterilize any jars you choose and confirm they won’t crack under heat.
Do I need to refrigerate the jars after baking?
No refrigeration is needed as long as the jars are properly sealed after baking and stored in a cool, dry place. This method helps maintain freshness without compromising the texture or flavor.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another fat?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter, coconut oil, or any mild-flavored oil. Just keep the measurement the same and consider how the substitution might slightly alter the flavor.
Is it necessary to prepare zucchini and banana batters separately?
Yes, preparing them separately preserves the distinct flavors and textures, giving you that delightful interplay of zucchini’s earthiness and banana’s sweetness in every bite.
How long will the bread stay fresh in the jars?
When sealed and stored properly at room temperature, your zucchini and banana bread can stay fresh for up to several months, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or gifting.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly special about this Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe that makes baking feel like a cozy little celebration. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply treating yourself to a wholesome, homemade snack anytime. Give this recipe a try and bring a little sweetness and warmth to your day, one jar at a time!
Print
Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings (each jar serving one)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar combines the moistness of zucchini bread with the sweet aroma of banana bread, baked directly in sterilized Mason jars. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a convenient, portable snack, these jars preserve the bread for extended freshness and make for a charming presentation.
Ingredients
Zucchini Bread Batter
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Banana Bread Batter
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Jars: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Thoroughly wash and sterilize Mason jars along with their lids to ensure they are clean and safe for baking.
- Make Batters: In two separate bowls, prepare the zucchini bread and banana bread batters by combining their respective ingredients, mixing until just combined and smooth.
- Fill the Jars: Pour the batters into the sterilized jars, filling each jar halfway. You can either layer the zucchini and banana batters for a marbled effect or mix them together if preferred.
- Bake the Bread: Place the filled jars on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean indicating doneness.
- Seal Jars: Immediately after removing the jars from the oven, seal them tightly with their lids to preserve freshness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store the sealed jars at room temperature for up to several months, perfect for gifting or keeping on hand for quick snacks.
Notes
- Sterilizing jars is critical to prevent spoilage and ensure safe storage.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and jar size; always test for doneness with a toothpick.
- Filling jars only halfway allows room for bread to rise without spilling over.
- Sealing jars immediately after baking helps create a vacuum seal that preserves the bread.
- Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture in the banana bread batter.
