Healthy Zucchini Brownies Recipe
Introduction
These healthy zucchini brownies offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic treat with a nutritious twist. Moist and fudgy, they sneak in vegetables without sacrificing rich chocolate flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cocoa powder, flour, and sugar. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth batter.
- Step 3: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 5: Let the brownies cool completely before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture and flavor, try adding a handful of chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips to the batter.
- Use whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier taste and added fiber.
- To reduce sugar, substitute half the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired to restore softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing into the batter to avoid soggy brownies.
Do these brownies taste like zucchini?
No, the zucchini adds moisture and nutrition without a strong flavor, so you’ll mainly enjoy rich chocolate taste and fudgy texture.
PrintHealthy Zucchini Brownies Recipe
These Healthy Zucchini Brownies are a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional brownies, incorporating shredded zucchini for added moisture and a boost of veggies. Made with cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and fresh zucchini, these brownies are fudgy, rich, and perfect for a guilt-free treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings (1 brownie each) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and shred the zucchini, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels, which helps prevent the brownies from becoming too wet.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the shredded zucchini, oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and evenly incorporated.
- Make the batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the brownies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares and serving. This chilling time helps them firm up for the perfect fudgy texture.
Notes
- For extra nutrition, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.
- Consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to avoid soggy brownies.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Keywords: healthy zucchini brownies, zucchini dessert, fudgy brownies, vegetable brownies, cocoa brownies, healthy baking, chocolate zucchini dessert
