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Fudgy Hidden Veggie Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

hidden veggie chocolate zucchini brownies - featured image

These fudgy brownies sneak in shredded zucchini for moisture and nutrition without compromising rich chocolate flavor. Moist, dense, and perfect for any occasion, they satisfy chocolate cravings while adding a hidden veggie boost.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for dietary needs)
  • 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled (or dairy-free butter)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
  • 1 cup (about 150g) shredded zucchini, squeezed dry
  • Optional mix-ins:
  • 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or chunks (dark or semi-sweet)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it.
  2. Shred zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
  3. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Whisk to combine.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk sugar and melted butter until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and espresso powder if using.
  5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Fold in shredded zucchini and optional chocolate chips or nuts.
  7. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  9. Cool brownies in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before cutting.

Notes

Always squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to avoid soggy brownies. Espresso powder enhances chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee. Do not overmix batter to keep brownies tender. Check brownies at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking. Let brownies cool before cutting for cleaner slices. Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: brownies, zucchini brownies, hidden veggies, healthy dessert, fudgy brownies, chocolate dessert, gluten-free option, vegan option