Creamy, moist, and unexpectedly chocolatey, these Zucchini Brownies are the kind of comfort dessert that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time45 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Vegetable
Servings: 12servings
Calories: 200kcal
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Baking Pan
Whisk
Spatula
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
2cupsAll-purpose flourSifted if preferred
1/2cupUnsweetened cocoa powderUnsifted is fine but ensure no lumps
1 1/2teaspoonsBaking soda
1teaspoonSalt
Wet Ingredients
1/2cupVegetable oilRoom temperature
1 1/2cupsGranulated sugar
2teaspoonsVanilla extract
2cupsGrated zucchiniSqueezed lightly to remove excess water if very wet
1/2cupChopped walnuts or chocolate chipsOptional, chopped walnuts or semi-sweet chips
Frosting Ingredients
1/4cupButterSoftened or melted
1/4cupUnsweetened cocoa powderFor frosting, sifted if clumpy
2cupsPowdered sugarFor frosting, sifted to avoid lumps
1/4cupMilkFor frosting, adjust for consistency, room temperature
1/2teaspoonVanilla extractFor frosting
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set this dry mix aside.
In a large bowl, combine the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and slightly glossy.
Stir in the grated zucchini to the wet mixture. If your zucchini is very watery, gently squeeze it in a clean towel to remove excess moisture first.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter.
While the brownies cool in the pan, prepare the frosting if desired. In a bowl, combine melted or softened butter and cocoa powder, mixing until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, beating until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Adjust milk or powdered sugar to reach spreadable consistency.
Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly on top. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If frosted, refrigerate and consume within 4 to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.