Description
These easy Zucchini Brownies combine the moistness of shredded zucchini with rich dark chocolate and almond flour for a healthier twist on classic brownies. Naturally sweetened with honey and cocoa powder, these gluten-free treats offer fudgy, decadent bites perfect for dessert or an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Brownies Ingredients
- 6 oz Zucchini (shredded using a box grater, do not drain; ~1 1/2 cups loosely measured)
- 1 1/2 cups Wholesome Yum Blanched Almond Flour
- 3 tbsp Dutch processed cocoa powder
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/4 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 cup Honey
- 2 large Eggs (at room temperature)
- 1/2 tbsp Vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup Coconut oil (or unsalted butter)
- 1 1/2 cups Sugar-free dark chocolate chips (or any kind you like; plus more for topping if desired)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Prepare Zucchini: Shred the zucchini using a box grater. Lightly pat it dry to remove excess moisture without squeezing or draining, keeping enough water to maintain moisture in the brownies. Set aside.
- Melt Chocolate and Oil: In a medium bowl, melt the coconut oil and chocolate chips together using a microwave or a double boiler on the stove, stirring frequently to create a smooth, combined mixture. Let it cool slightly to avoid scrambling the eggs later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, Dutch processed cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt, mixing well to evenly distribute the leavening agent and cocoa.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another medium bowl, whisk together honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and homogeneous.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Stir the wet egg mixture into the dry ingredient bowl. The batter will be thick at this stage.
- Add Chocolate Mixture: Stir the slightly cooled melted chocolate and oil one more time to re-incorporate any separated parts, then pour it into the batter and mix until fully combined.
- Fold in Zucchini: Gently fold the shredded zucchini into the batter, distributing evenly without overmixing.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the lined baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula for even baking. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra chocolate bursts.
- Bake: Bake the brownies for 22 to 25 minutes at 350°F. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. For fudgy brownies, a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few gooey crumbs; for cakey texture, it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares to allow them to set and maintain their shape.
Notes
- Do not drain the zucchini completely to preserve moisture in the brownies.
- Honey adds natural sweetness, but you can substitute with maple syrup if preferred.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to mix better and improve brownie texture.
- Using almond flour makes this recipe gluten-free and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Adjust baking time slightly depending on your oven for desired fudginess or cakeyness.
- Additional chocolate chips on top create appealing chocolate pockets and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Zucchini brownies, healthy brownies, gluten-free dessert, almond flour brownies, low sugar brownies, easy brownies recipe, chocolate zucchini dessert
