Description
These easy Zucchini Brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Shredded zucchini adds moisture and creates a soft texture while staying hidden in the brownie batter. Finished with a creamy chocolate frosting, this homemade dessert is perfect for using fresh zucchini and satisfying any chocolate craving.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the brownies.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps create a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate taste.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and creates a fudgy consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a chewy texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warm flavor.
- 2 cups shredded zucchini: Adds moisture and tenderness to the brownies.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps combine the thick batter if needed.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts: Adds crunch and nutty flavor (optional).
- 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Used for chocolate frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates a smooth frosting texture.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps create spreadable frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds extra flavor to frosting.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil and cooking spray.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl until evenly combined.
- Mix vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
- Fold in shredded zucchini and allow the batter to rest briefly so the zucchini releases moisture.
- Add water one tablespoon at a time if needed until the thick batter comes together.
- Stir in chopped walnuts if desired and spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the brownies are set and the center springs back lightly when touched.
- Prepare the chocolate frosting by mixing melted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Spread frosting over cooled brownies, allow it to set, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Do not remove all moisture from the zucchini because it helps keep the brownies soft and fudgy.
- Zucchini moisture levels vary, so add water only if the batter is too dry.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a moist brownie texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Chocolate chips, pecans, or extra nuts can be added for additional flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
