Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These secretly healthy zucchini brownies offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic treat with a nutritious twist. Packed with grated zucchini and applesauce, they stay moist and rich without the guilt. Perfect for anyone looking to sneak some veggies into their dessert!

Ingredients

• 2 cups finely grated zucchini (firmly packed)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/3 cups applesauce (unsweetened recommended)
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup flour (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: 1 cup chocolate chips and/or nuts

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Step 4: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Step 5: Fold in the chocolate chips and/or nuts if you’re using them.
6. Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Step 7: Bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
8. Step 8: Let the brownies cool completely before frosting if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use all-purpose flour for a more traditional texture or oat flour for a gluten-free option.
• Add a handful of walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Try frosting with a simple mixture of melted chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter, or spread on some Nutella for a delicious finish.
• Make sure to squeeze excess moisture out of the zucchini if it feels very wet, to avoid soggy brownies.

Storage

Store these zucchini brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm briefly in the microwave or let come to room temperature for best texture, especially if frosted.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Will the zucchini flavor be noticeable in the brownies?

No, the zucchini adds moisture and nutrition but its flavor is very subtle. The cocoa and other ingredients mask the taste, so they taste like classic brownies.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of oat flour, and swap the applesauce for mashed banana if desired. Just keep in mind these changes may slightly alter texture and flavor.

Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 114 reviews

These Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies are a deliciously moist and fudgy treat that cleverly incorporates finely grated zucchini for added nutrition and moisture without compromising on classic brownie flavor. Sweetened with brown sugar and applesauce, and made with oat or all-purpose flour, these brownies offer a healthier twist on a beloved dessert, featuring optional chocolate chips, nuts, and a luscious frosting for extra indulgence.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 brownies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Ingredients:

• 2 cups finely grated zucchini (firmly packed)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup oat flour (can substitute 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

Optional Frosting (Melt Together):

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• OR Nutella to spread on top

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the brownies won’t stick.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely grated zucchini, brown sugar, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir well to create a smooth mixture.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well blended.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to form the brownie batter.
5. Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in chocolate chips and/or nuts if desired to add texture and bursts of flavor.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
7. Prepare Frosting (Optional): While the brownies bake, melt together chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Alternatively, use Nutella as a spread.
8. Cool and Frost: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before spreading the frosting evenly on top, if using. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

• Firmly packing the grated zucchini ensures the correct moisture content in the batter.
• Using oat flour makes this recipe gluten-free; all-purpose flour works well too.
• The applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture, reducing the need for extra oil.
• Check for doneness at around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Frosting is optional but adds rich flavor and texture to the brownies.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: Zucchini brownies, healthy brownies, chocolate zucchini dessert, gluten free brownies, low fat dessert, moist brownies