Description

Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies are a delicious, guilt-free dessert that uses zucchini for added moisture and nutrition. These brownies are rich in flavor, perfectly chocolatey, and can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients

2 cups finely grated zucchini (packed)

1 cup brown sugar

1 1/3 cups unsweetened applesauce

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2/3 cup oat flour (or all-purpose flour)

1 cup cocoa powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup chocolate chips and/or nuts

For Optional Frosting:

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup butterscotch chips

1/2 cup peanut butter

Or, spread some Nutella on top

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the oat flour (or all-purpose flour), cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
If desired, fold in the chocolate chips and/or nuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
For the frosting: melt together the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter in the microwave or over low heat on the stove. Stir until smooth and spread over the cooled brownies.
Alternatively, you can spread Nutella on top for a quick, delicious finish.

Notes

If using regular flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour for oat flour.
No need to peel the zucchini, just grate it finely for a smooth texture.
Feel free to use different sweeteners like coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup in place of brown sugar, though it may slightly alter the texture.
If you prefer a healthier frosting, substitute Greek yogurt for peanut butter and reduce the sugar content.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 180
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg