Name: Fudgy Zucchini Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups finely shredded zucchini; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

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These brownies are ultra-fudgy with a rich chocolate flavor, cleverly hiding nutritious zucchini for moistness without compromising on indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sneaks in a serving of vegetables
Irresistibly gooey texture
Easy one-bowl preparation
Healthier twist on traditional brownies
Loved by both kids and adults
Great for using up summer zucchini
No one will guess the secret ingredient
Keeps well and freezes nicely

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Grated zucchini
Oil (vegetable or coconut)
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Flour (all-purpose)
Cocoa powder
Baking soda or baking powder
Salt
Chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a pan (e.g. 9×13″) with parchment paper or grease.
In a large bowl, mix oil, sugar, and vanilla until combined.
Add flour, cocoa powder, baking soda (or powder), and salt; stir until dry components are moistened.
Fold in grated zucchini, allow batter to rest briefly, then mix in chocolate chips if using.
Spread batter evenly in the pan.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 24 brownies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes Inside BruCrew Life+4The Baker Chick+4Crazy for Crust+4 Real Life Dinner 31 Daily

Variations

Use coconut oil for a subtle nutty flavor
Add cinnamon or espresso powder for depth
Substitute part of the sugar with natural sweeteners (like applesauce or bananas)
Mix in nuts or dried fruit
Top with a simple chocolate glaze for extra richness

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw before serving
To warm, microwave briefly or reheat in a low oven for that freshly baked feel

FAQs

Can I omit the zucchini?

Yes, but it adds moisture and a nutritional boost.

Do I need to drain the zucchini?

No—finely grated and undrained zucchini works best for texture.

Will they taste like zucchini?

Not at all—the chocolate masks the vegetable flavor completely.

Can I use cocoa nibs instead of chips?

Yes, for a less sweet, richer taste.

Are they gluten-free?

Yes, with a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes—adjust pan size and baking time accordingly.

Do they freeze well?

Yes, they freeze beautifully when wrapped properly.

Can I make them vegan?

Use flax eggs and plant-based milk options.

Is it okay to add nuts?

Absolutely, walnuts or pecans make a great addition.

Should I cool before cutting?

Yes, fully cooled brownies cut cleaner.

Conclusion

Fudgy Zucchini Brownies are a clever, delicious treat that gives you indulgence and nutrition in a single bite. Easy to make, adaptable, and sure to become a family favorite.

Fudgy Zucchini Brownies

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Moist, rich, and chocolatey brownies made with shredded zucchini for extra moisture and a sneaky dose of veggies—perfect for a healthier dessert option.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the oil, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Batter will be dry and crumbly.
Fold in the shredded zucchini. As you mix, the moisture from the zucchini will loosen the batter into a thick consistency.
Stir in chocolate chips if using.
Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely before slicing for the best fudgy texture.