Preparation Steps

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil and eggs until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and ground cinnamon. Whisk to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
• Fold in the grated zucchini and the chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly incorporated into the batter.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.