These Double Chocolate Zucchini Brownies are a decadent and fudgy treat that cleverly incorporates a healthy dose of vegetables. The zucchini adds moisture and tenderness to the brownies, while the double dose of chocolate delivers intense flavor. These brownies are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any guilt.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll adore these brownies for several compelling reasons. First, they offer a delightful way to sneak in vegetables, making them a hit with both kids and adults. The zucchini seamlessly blends into the batter, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the rich chocolate flavor. Second, the combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips creates a deep, intense chocolate experience that is simply irresistible. These brownies are incredibly fudgy, moist, and have a perfect balance of sweetness. Finally, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The results are consistently delicious, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups shredded zucchini (do not drain)
- 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips, divided
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray. This ensures the brownies will release easily once they are baked.
Step 2: Shred the zucchini using a cheese grater or a food processor with the grating attachment. Place the shredded zucchini in a bowl. Do not drain the zucchini; the moisture is essential for the brownie’s texture.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix with a wooden spoon or a spatula until well combined. This mixture forms the base of the brownie batter and should be smooth and consistent.
Step 4: In a separate, small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the brownies to rise properly and have a consistent flavor.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can result in tough brownies. The batter will initially appear dry, but don’t worry – the zucchini will release moisture as it sits.
Step 6: Fold in the shredded zucchini and let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the zucchini to release its liquid, which will help create the perfect brownie consistency. After resting, finish mixing the batter to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 7: Fold in 1 cup of the chocolate chips into the batter. These chocolate chips will melt during baking, adding pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the brownies.
Step 8: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top of the batter. This will create a visually appealing chocolate topping that enhances the overall chocolate experience.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to keep an eye on the brownies and check for doneness.
Step 10: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This prevents them from crumbling and makes them easier to handle.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Double Chocolate Zucchini Brownies are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. They are perfect for dessert, snacks, or even a special treat with a cup of coffee.
Tips:
- Do not drain the zucchini after shredding, as the moisture is essential for keeping the brownies moist and fudgy.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can result in tough brownies.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- To prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan, line it with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion:
These Double Chocolate Zucchini Brownies are a delightful and guilt-free treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the subtle health benefits of zucchini. They are incredibly easy to make and are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you’re looking for a delicious dessert, a satisfying snack, or a creative way to sneak in vegetables, these brownies are the perfect choice. Enjoy the fudgy, moist texture and the intense chocolate flavor in every bite!
Q&A about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable or canola oil?
A: Yes, you can substitute vegetable or canola oil with other neutral-flavored oils such as melted coconut oil or even olive oil, although olive oil may impart a slight flavor. Just ensure the oil is mild in flavor to not overpower the chocolate.
Q2: What can I do if I don’t have chocolate chips on hand?
A: If you don’t have chocolate chips, you can use chopped chocolate, such as a chocolate bar. Alternatively, you can increase the amount of cocoa powder slightly to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Q3: Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before adding it to the batter. This will prevent the brownies from becoming too soggy.
Q4: How do I store the brownies to keep them fresh?
A: To keep the brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just wrap them individually or in small batches before freezing.
Q5: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding nuts can provide a lovely textural contrast and flavor. Consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter along with the chocolate chips for an even more delicious treat.
