Description
These Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies are a delicious way to enjoy a classic dessert while sneaking in some nutritious vegetables. Made with finely shredded zucchini, whole wheat flour, and natural sweeteners like honey or pure maple syrup, these brownies offer a fudgy texture without the guilt. Perfect for a wholesome treat that’s dairy-free, vegetarian, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup finely shredded zucchini (excess moisture squeezed out)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini (make sure it’s well squeezed to remove excess moisture), unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut or vegetable oil, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are fully blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly to incorporate these dry ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the whole wheat or all-purpose flour into the mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense brownies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, fold the dark chocolate chips into the batter evenly for added richness and texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 9 squares. This ensures they set properly and maintain their fudgy texture.
Notes
- Ensure you squeeze out excess moisture from shredded zucchini to prevent soggy brownies.
- For a fudgier texture, refrigerate the brownies after they have cooled completely.
- These brownies are ideal for sneaking vegetables into desserts for kids or adults.
- You can make this recipe dairy-free by using dairy-free dark chocolate chips or omitting them altogether.
