Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Zucchini Brownies! These brownies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, and they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. Plus, they’re made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. If you’re looking for a way to sneak some veggies into your family’s diet, this is it! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good brownie? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and fudgy texture that everyone will adore.
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Perfect for a nutritious dessert or snack.
- Great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden.
- Can be made vegan with a simple substitution!
Ingredients
To whip up these scrumptious Zucchini Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose or whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded zucchini
- 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup butter (or plant-based alternative for vegan version)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making these delicious brownies!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine vegetable oil, white sugar, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Squeeze excess moisture from shredded zucchini and fold it into the batter evenly.
- Spread the mixture in the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking for doneness by pressing lightly in the center.
- While cooling, prepare frosting by melting cocoa powder and butter, then mixing with powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Frost cooled brownies before slicing into squares.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly:
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to avoid soggy brownies.
- For an extra chocolatey flavor, add chocolate chips to the batter!
- Let the brownies cool completely before frosting for the best results.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare these brownies as part of your quick family dinners or 30-minute meals.
How to Serve
These Zucchini Brownies are perfect for any occasion! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Cut them into smaller squares for a healthy treat in lunchboxes.
- For a fun twist, try serving them with a drizzle of creamy chocolate sauce!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare these brownies in advance, they store beautifully! Here’s how:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
- You can also freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!
So there you have it! A delicious and healthy dessert that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making these Zucchini Brownies as much as I do. And if you’re looking for more easy recipes, check out my Beef Cheesy Burger Rollups or Ground Beef Stroganoff for some fantastic weeknight dinner ideas. Happy baking!
Zucchini Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch pan.
- Mix oil, sugar, and vanilla until blended. Combine dry ingredients and add to wet mixture.
- Fold in squeezed shredded zucchini. Spread batter in pan and bake 25-30 minutes.
- Make frosting by melting cocoa and butter, then mixing with powdered sugar and milk. Frost cooled brownies.