Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
By Lisa Winbourn, Certified Functional Nutritionist · June 26, 2026
If you're looking for a healthier gluten-free treat, this chocolate chip zucchini bread is soft, moist, and easy to make. Made with shredded zucchini, ground flaxseed, applesauce, and just enough chocolate chips for sweetness, it's a delicious option for dessert or an afternoon snack.
Why This Recipe Works
- Made with gluten-free flour
- Includes zucchini for added moisture and nutrients
- Contains ground flaxseed for extra fiber
- Lower in fat thanks to applesauce
- Great for meal prep
- Freezes well
Nutrition Information
Per Slice
- Calories: 211
- Protein: 1.8 g
- Fat: 7.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
Lisa's Nutrition Notes
One of the biggest misconceptions I see is that healthy eating means giving up every sweet treat. I prefer finding ways to make favorite recipes a little more nourishing instead. This recipe adds zucchini for moisture, flaxseed for extra fiber, and applesauce to replace some of the oil while still tasting like a treat. I like pairing a slice with a protein source, such as Greek yogurt, a protein shake, cottage cheese, or a couple of hard-boiled eggs. Pairing carbohydrates with protein helps create a more balanced snack that supports steady energy and keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
Who This Recipe Is Great For
This recipe may fit well into a balanced eating plan for those looking for:
- Gluten-free recipes
- Healthier dessert ideas
- Meal prep snacks
- Liver-supportive eating
- Blood sugar-conscious meal planning (when paired with protein)
- Family-friendly baked goods
Ingredient Spotlight
Zucchini
Zucchini adds moisture, fiber, vitamins, and minerals while helping reduce the amount of added fat needed in baked goods.
Ground Flaxseed
Ground flaxseed provides fiber and plant-based omega-3 fats while adding texture to baked goods.
Applesauce
Unsweetened applesauce replaces some of the oil, helping create a moist loaf with less added fat.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds natural sweetness and warm flavor without adding extra sugar.
Protein Pairing Ideas
Turn this into a balanced snack by enjoying it with:
- Greek yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Protein shake
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Turkey sausage
- String cheese
- A glass of milk
Ready for a Complete Meal Plan?
Healthy eating doesn't have to mean giving up foods you love. The goal is learning how to build meals and snacks that nourish your body while still feeling enjoyable. The 28-Day Liver Revival includes four weeks of balanced meal plans, recipes, shopping lists, and practical nutrition guidance designed to support your liver, digestion, energy, and metabolism.
Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated raw sugar
- ¼ cup melted and cooled coconut oil
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup packed grated zucchini
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 4 x 8-inch loaf pan or line it with crumpled parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine all of the wet ingredients.
- Add the gluten-free flour, ground flaxseed, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing into 12 pieces.
Recipe FAQs
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No. Simply wash the zucchini and grate it. The peel softens during baking and adds extra nutrients.
Should I squeeze the water out of the zucchini?
For this recipe, lightly blotting excess moisture is fine, but don't completely dry it out. The moisture helps keep the bread soft.
Can I freeze zucchini bread?
Yes. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Can I leave out the chocolate chips?
Absolutely. The bread is still delicious without them if you'd like a less sweet option.
Is this a good breakfast?
This recipe works best as part of a balanced meal or snack. Pairing it with a protein source helps keep you fuller longer and supports more stable blood sugar.
Written by
Lisa Winbourn, Certified Functional Nutritionist
Certified Functional Nutritionist with a B.S. in Chemistry & Biochemistry and 18 years in the pharmaceutical industry. She helps women with fatty liver, life after gallbladder removal, MTHFR, and a stalled metabolism.