Gluten Free Zucchini Brownies
Are you ready to indulge in something incredibly rich and satisfying while staying mindful of your health? These gluten-free zucchini brownies are a game changer. They manage to capture all the decadence you crave while sneaking in some goodness from veggies. Perfect for weekends, birthday parties, or even a simple dessert after dinner, these brownies prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Plus, whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just looking to incorporate more nutritious options into your diet, this recipe is a delicious solution.
Why you’ll love this dish
Why should you make these gluten-free zucchini brownies? For starters, they tick all the boxes when it comes to delicious desserts: rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and a hint of sweetness. They’re also a budget-friendly option that you can whip up with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. If you’re looking for a treat that kids will adore, these brownies are packed with nutrients and fiber without sacrificing taste, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
"These brownies are the best! Even my picky eaters loved them, and I felt good serving veggies as a treat!" – Happy Baker
How this recipe comes together
Making gluten-free zucchini brownies is straightforward and incredibly satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You start by preparing your ingredients, and then it’s just a matter of mixing, pouring, and baking. The entire process takes less than an hour from start to finish! You’ll gather freshly grated zucchini that adds moisture and nutrients, mix it with dry ingredients, and then bake until perfectly set.
What you’ll need
Before you dive in, let’s gather the essential ingredients for these delicious brownies:
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Feel free to swap out honey for maple syrup if you prefer a vegan option, or use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour for nut-free brownies!
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to create these delightful zucchini brownies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, almond flour, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.
- Add the baking soda and salt, stirring until everything is combined seamlessly.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter for a melty surprise in every bite.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool before cutting them into squares to enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
These brownies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm topped with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Pair with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, to enhance their chocolate flavor. They also make a fantastic treat with a cup of coffee or a glass of almond milk.
How to store & freeze
To keep your gluten-free zucchini brownies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them, which will extend their shelf life to about a week. For longer preservation, consider freezing them; simply wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer and you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy that freshly-baked taste!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to enhance your zucchini brownie-making experience:
- Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel; this helps prevent overly wet brownies.
- Experiment with different sweeteners; agave or coconut sugar can be great alternatives.
- Don’t skip the chocolate chips if you love a chocolatey punch—these add an irresistible layer of gooeyness!
Creative twists
Get creative with your zucchini brownies! For a different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder for a richer taste. You can also customize the toppings—consider sprinkling nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of dairy-free chocolate on top before serving. For a seasonal twist, incorporate spices like cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice if you’re making these in the fall.
Your questions answered
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can replace the two eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons of water) for a vegan version.
How long does it take to prepare?
All in all, you should expect about 10-15 minutes for prep, and 25-30 minutes for baking, making it a quick and easy treat.
Can I use other flours?
Certainly! If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute almond flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to adjust the proportions as needed.
Now you’re all set to bake some amazing gluten-free zucchini brownies that promise to please everyone at the table! Enjoy the journey and the delicious outcome.
Gluten-Free Zucchini Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, almond flour, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.
- Add the baking soda and salt, stirring until everything is combined seamlessly.
- If you're using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool before cutting them into squares to enjoy.
