Cinnamon Zucchini Bread (Sweet Budget Loaf for Under $3)

This cinnamon zucchini bread is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug. It’s moist, tender, and naturally sweet with just the right hint of cinnamon. You’d never guess that it’s made with simple, affordable ingredients and a handful of pantry staples. The shredded zucchini keeps the loaf perfectly soft without needing eggs, making it both wholesome and budget-friendly. Enjoy a slice for breakfast with coffee or as a cozy afternoon snack — all for under three dollars!

Ingredients

2 cups Flour

1 tsp Baking Soda

1 tsp Baking Powder

1 tsp Cinnamon

1/2 tsp Salt

1 cup Shredded Zucchini (liquid removed)

1/2 cup Sugar

1/4 cup Oil or Vegan Butter

1/2 cup Plant Milk (soy, almond, etc)

1 tsp Vanilla

This cinnamon zucchini bread is soft, moist, and perfectly sweet — the kind of recipe that makes your whole kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. I started making it as a way to use up extra zucchini, but now it’s one of my favorite go-to loaves all year round. The shredded zucchini gives it a wonderful texture while keeping the bread light and tender, and the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting touch.

You’d never guess that this loaf costs just over two dollars to make. It’s made entirely with pantry staples: flour, sugar, baking powder, and plant milk. No fancy ingredients, no special equipment — just a simple bowl, a whisk, and an oven.

I love enjoying a slice with a cup of tea in the morning or spreading a little vegan butter on it while it’s still warm. It’s the perfect mix of wholesome and indulgent. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly dessert or breakfast treat that feels special, this zucchini bread will absolutely hit the spot.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.

Shred the zucchini and place in a clean dish towel, squeeze out all excess moister.

This will ensure that the loaf does not get soggy.

In one bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

In another bowl, mix zucchini, sugar, oil, milk, and vanilla.

Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

Bake 45–50 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cost: 1 loaf, $2.32 total