Shhh Don't Tell Them It's Squash Bread

Delightfully moist and subtly spiced, "Shhh Don't Tell Them It's Squash Bread" is the ultimate sneaky treat for vegetable skeptics and bread lovers alike. This easy-to-make quick bread features a secret ingredient: shredded yellow squash, which adds natural moisture and a tender crumb without overpowering the flavor. Sweetened with a perfect blend of granulated and brown sugars, and infused with warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, this loaf captures the essence of cozy home baking. A hint of applesauce keeps it light, while optional chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple pantry staples, this recipe comes together effortlessly. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a picture-perfect finish and serve a slice of this irresistible squash bread—your guests will never guess the hidden veggie twist! Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or a sweet dessert, this crowd-pleaser is a must-try. Keywords: squash bread recipe, hidden vegetable bread, moist quick bread, spiced loaf with squash.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup brown sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoons baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 0.5 cup vegetable oil
• 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups yellow squash, shredded
• 0.5 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.

Step 4

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5

Fold the shredded yellow squash into the batter. If desired, add the chopped walnuts or pecans and fold them in as well.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with the spatula.

Step 7

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8

Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9

Once cool, dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative touch, if desired.

Step 10

Slice and serve. Enjoy the sweet, moist bread without revealing the secret squash ingredient—your guests will never guess!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1289.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3555.3

Total Fat 157.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 67.2g
Cholesterol 372mg	0%
Sodium 2659.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 510.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.3g	0%
Total Sugars 308.2g
Protein 51.9g	0%

Vitamin D 82IU	0%
Calcium 274.6mg	0%
Iron 16.9mg	0%
Potassium 1766.3mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.7%

Protein: 5.7%

Carbs: 55.6%