If you’ve been searching for a delightful twist on classic comfort food, this Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe will quickly become your new favorite treat. Combining the moist richness of ripe bananas with the subtle earthiness of fresh zucchini, baked right in charming Mason jars, this recipe delivers a portable, charming, and irresistibly fresh take on traditional quick breads. Perfect for breakfast on the go, a thoughtful gift, or just a cozy snack, these jars pack in layered flavors and that homemade goodness we all crave.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple, essential ingredients that together create the perfect balance of moisture, sweetness, and spice to highlight both the zucchini and banana. Each component plays its part in crafting the texture, flavor, and visual appeal of this unique bread-in-a-jar experience.
- 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini: Adds moisture and a tender crumb without overpowering the bread’s flavor.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Provides natural sweetness and depth, making the bread delectably soft.
- 1 1/2 cups flour: The foundation that gives structure to the bread.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the batter just right for a balanced taste.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a warm, caramel note to the bread’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder: Provides additional lift and lightness.
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses the bread with welcoming warmth and spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty aroma to complement the cinnamon.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
- 1 egg: Binds all the ingredients together for a perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil + 1/2 cup melted butter: Keeps the bread moist and tender with a rich finish.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lends a lovely fragrant undertone that elevates the batter.
How to Make Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Prepare Your Jars
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it heats up, wash your Mason jars and lids thoroughly, then sterilize them to make sure your baked goods stay fresh and safe inside. This step is important to preserve the shelf life and guarantee a clean, beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Mix the Zucchini and Banana Batters Separately
In separate bowls, prepare your zucchini bread batter and banana bread batter. Combining these two gives you the opportunity to enjoy distinct flavors and textures in each jar, whether you layer them or swirl them together—both ways are delicious!
Step 3: Fill the Jars with Batter
Pour your batters into the sterilized jars, filling each about halfway. You can either layer the zucchini and banana batters for a striped effect or mix them lightly for a marbled look. This step is where your creativity shines, making each jar uniquely yours.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
Place the jars on a baking sheet and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The slow baking ensures even cooking while the jars retain moisture, resulting in a soft, tender crumb that’s hard to resist.
Step 5: Seal and Cool
As soon as the baking time is up, remove your jars from the oven and immediately seal them with their lids while still hot. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature. This method locks in freshness and creates a wonderful, airtight container for your bread.
Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Your sealed jars can now be stored at room temperature for several months, making them perfect for gifts or for keeping a ready supply of homemade bread on hand anytime you need a comforting bite.
How to Serve Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your presentation and add extra flavor. Consider a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top of the open jar just before serving to add sweetness and visual interest.
Side Dishes
Pair your bread-in-a-jar with fresh fruit, a side of creamy yogurt, or even a small bowl of nut butter for dipping. These accompaniments create a balanced snack or a nutritious breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
These jars are perfect for gifting or special occasions. Dress them up with a raffia ribbon around the neck, attach a handwritten label or tag with the recipe’s name, or include a little wooden spoon tied on for instant readiness. They’re charming, portable, and guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any jars left after your first round of enjoyment, no worries! The sealed jars keep wonderfully at room temperature for weeks. Just make sure to store them away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry spot.
Freezing
You can freeze your bread-in-a-jar if you want to extend the shelf life even further. Simply wrap the sealed jar in a layer of foil or place it inside a freezer bag to protect against freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and enjoy the freshness as if it were just baked.
Reheating
To enjoy your zucchini and banana bread warm, remove the lid and microwave the jar on medium for about 20-30 seconds. Alternatively, you can pop the jar in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes. Just be sure to take off the lid before reheating to avoid pressure buildup.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash instead of zucchini?
Definitely! Yellow squash or even grated carrot can work well in this recipe, but zucchini offers the best moisture and subtle flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
Is it necessary to sterilize the jars before baking?
Yes, sterilizing ensures your jars are free of bacteria and safe for storing baked goods. It also helps create a vacuum seal when you close the lids hot, preserving freshness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the egg with a flax egg or chia egg, and use plant-based oil and butter alternatives. Keep in mind that texture and taste might differ slightly but will still be delicious.
How long does the bread keep once opened?
Once opened, it’s best to consume the bread within a few days or refrigerate it to maintain freshness. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying.
Can I double the recipe for larger batches?
Absolutely! Just make sure to have enough jars and adjust baking times slightly if necessary, keeping an eye on the bread’s doneness with a toothpick test.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with this heartwarming Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe. It brings together freshness, convenience, and a touch of homemade magic that makes every bite feel special. Whether you’re keeping them for yourself, sharing with friends, or gifting during the holidays, these jars of goodness are bound to bring smiles all around. Give it a try — I promise you’ll love every delicious mouthful!
Print
Zucchini and Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 jars
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in this unique Zucchini and Banana Bread baked right in Mason jars, combining moist zucchini bread and sweet banana bread layers into a charming, portable treat. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at home, these jars keep the bread fresh for months.
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 your oven to 325°F (165°C). Thoroughly wash and sterilize your Mason jars and lids to ensure they are clean and safe for baking.
- Mix batters separately: In separate bowls, prepare the zucchini bread batter by combining grated zucchini, flour, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Prepare the banana bread batter by mixing mashed bananas, flour, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fill jars with batters: Pour each batter into the sterilized jars, filling them halfway. You can layer the two batters or mix them gently as desired for a marbled effect.
- Bake the bread jars: Place the filled jars on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Seal and cool: Immediately after baking, seal each jar tightly with its lid to preserve freshness. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
- Storage: Store the sealed jars at room temperature for up to several months, making them perfect for gifts or long-lasting homemade treats.
Notes
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to avoid contamination and spoilage.
- Do not overfill jars to prevent overflow during baking.
- Use caution when removing jars from the oven as they will be hot.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid undercooked batter.
- Sealing jars immediately after baking helps create a vacuum seal for preservation.
- Customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips to either batter if desired.
