Zucchini Brownies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Options) Recipe
These Zucchini Brownies are a delicious and moist treat that cleverly incorporates grated zucchini for added moisture and nutrition. Perfectly suited for gluten-free and dairy-free diets when using the appropriate substitutions, these rich cocoa brownies are sweetened with coconut sugar and applesauce, providing a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. Ideal for those seeking a fudgy, chocolatey dessert with a vegetable twist.
- Author: luca
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs (50 grams each, out of shell)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar (or unrefined sugar or granulated sugar)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten-free flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum if needed for binding)
- 1/2 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups zucchini (peeled and grated)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dairy-free, use Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for dairy-free, use Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips) to sprinkle on top
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, coconut sugar, and unsweetened applesauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, Dutch-process cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa throughout the flour.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the peeled and grated zucchini and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring even distribution without overworking the batter.
- Transfer to Baking Pan and Add Topping: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips evenly over the top for added texture and chocolate bursts.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached but no wet batter, ensuring a fudgy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help the brownies hold together.
- For a dairy-free version, use Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips or another dairy-free chocolate chip brand.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense brownies.
- Grating zucchini finely and peeling it helps to integrate moisture without adding too much texture.
- To store, keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can freeze brownies for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
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