Craving a rich, fudgy brownie that’s surprisingly good for you? You can easily whip up these Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies, a perfect addition to your collection of Healthy Brownies Recipes. These treats are so delicious, you won’t even notice the hidden vegetable!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Dark Chocolate: Use good quality dark chocolate chips or a chopped bar for best flavor.
- Zucchini: Grate it finely and squeeze out excess moisture. No substitution for this star ingredient!
- All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat pastry flour can also be used for a slightly healthier twist.
- Sweetener: Granulated sugar or coconut sugar work well. Reduce slightly if you prefer less sweet.
- Oil: Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil keeps these brownies moist.
Ingredients
Main:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (plus more for topping, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Tools: 9×13 inch baking pan, large mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
You will want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Your mixture should be smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder for a smooth batter. This step ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your brownies tough. A few streaks of flour are okay.
5. Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and dark chocolate chips. Ensure the zucchini is evenly distributed throughout the batter. This is where the magic happens for these Healthy Brownies Recipes!
6. Bake Your Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. If desired, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. This allows them to set properly and become fudgier. Enjoy your delightful Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies!
Variation Ideas
- Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder with the cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter into the batter for a peanut butter chocolate twist.
Storage Instructions
You can store your cooled Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do these brownies taste like zucchini?
A: No, the zucchini is virtually undetectable. It simply adds moisture and nutrients, making these Healthy Brownies Recipes extra fudgy.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Yes, but you must thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the batter.
Q: Are these brownies dairy-free?
A: If you use a dairy-free butter alternative and dairy-free chocolate chips, yes, they can be made dairy-free.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Q: How do I know when the brownies are done?
A: A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking will make them dry.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: You can slightly reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup without drastically affecting the texture, but it will impact the sweetness.
