Chocolate zucchini brownies? Seriously? I was sure there was no way that my brownie-loving-husband would like them. But when you sink your teeth into their chewy, sweet, chocolaty deliciousness, you would never guess they have zucchini in them! And neither will the kiddos! Finally, a dessert that will get them to eat their vegetables. Life is good!
You can switch up the type of chocolate chips you choose to improve their health benefits. I for one, usually go for the dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips. But you may want to choose anything from milk chocolate to the double dark chocolate chips.
I don’t like to use milk chocolate because of the sugar content. However, I did make a batch of half milk chocolate and half dark chocolate and my husband really liked them! I seriously could not tell a huge difference. Either way, they will be healthier than any regular or out-of-the box brownies. And the family will be getting some vegetables (not to mention a dab of applesauce).
One healthy benefits is that these brownies call for coconut sugar: a healthy alternative to regular sugar or an artificial sweetener. And it also calls for whole wheat or spelt flour, instead of highly processed flour.
Just wait until you read the health benefits at the end of the recipe!
Having said that, does that mean I’m going to eat 5 of them every day. NOT! But they certainly qualify for the 80/20 rule. So enjoy their chewy goodness (in moderation) as a healthier alternative, and a very scrumptious dessert.
And leave a comment below to let me know you’re going to try them! Also, you’re welcome to suggest any changes.
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract preferably pure, not immitation
- 1/2 c coconut sugar
- 1/4 c honey preferably raw, unrefined
- 1/2 tsp stevia extract liquid
- 1/4 c applesauce unsweetened
- 2 c zucchini pelaed and finely shredded
- 1 c whole wheat flour or spelt flour
- 1/2 c cocoa powder Dutch processed makes the chewier
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 c chocolate chips (your choice depending on your health goals)
- 1/4 - 1/2 c mini chocolate chips optional
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla, coconut sugar, honey, stevia and applesauce.
- Stir in finely shredded zucchini.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, soda, cinnamon and salt.
- Fold dry mixture into wet mixture.
- Pour into a 9 x 9 pan lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 30 - 35 minutes.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top when brownies are still hot. This helps them to adhere to the brownies. Or, you can spread them around to cover the brownies.
God-given health benefits of these scrumptious ingredients:
Eggs: contain Omega 3s, lutein for eye health which may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, and may help to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.
Applesauce: rich in antioxidants and high in fiber, and may help prevent cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Zucchini: may aid in eye health, weight loss, metabolize cholesterol, prevent sclerosis, and aid with health of nerve cells and bones.
Whole wheat flour (gluten free if necessary): may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, prevent gallstones, and protect against breast cancer and heart disease.
Cocoa powder (preferably raw): may act as an antidepressant, boost immune system, aid in bone health, and help prevent inflammation.
Dark chocolate: contains antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties which may benefit heart, brain and nerve health, as well as lower the risk of diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
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