Dessert

Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies Recipe

ByAiden Wells December 21, 2025December 21, 2025

Introduction

These Secretly Healthy Zucchini Brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with the added nutrition of zucchini, making them a delicious treat you can feel good about. Moist and fudgy, they are perfect for anyone looking to sneak some veggies into a classic dessert.

A single square piece of dark brown brownie with a dense, moist texture sits on a dark slate board. It is topped with a thick, smooth layer of milk chocolate frosting that slightly drips down the edges. Scattered generously on top and around the brownie are small, round, milk chocolate chips. The whole scene rests on a white marbled surface with soft light highlighting the glossy frosting and rich chocolate color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups finely grated zucchini (firmly packed)
1 cup brown sugar
1 1/3 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2/3 cup flour (oat flour or all-purpose)
1 cup cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips and/or nuts

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 4: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Fold in the chocolate chips and/or nuts if using.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Step 7: Bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Let the brownies cool completely before frosting if desired.
Optional frosting: Melt together 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/2 cup butterscotch chips, and 1/2 cup peanut butter, then spread over cooled brownies. Alternatively, spread on some Nutella.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, use oat flour or your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar slightly and add more cocoa powder for a richer taste.
To boost texture, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips.
You can substitute applesauce with mashed banana for a different flavor twist.

Storage

Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze brownies individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave or let come to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

A single square brownie with a rich, dark brown base layer that looks moist and dense, topped with a thick layer of smooth, glossy milk chocolate frosting scattered with small, shiny chocolate chips. The brownie sits on a dark slate board that rests on a textured, light brown fabric over a white marbled surface. Extra chocolate chips are scattered around the brownie on the board and fabric, adding depth and texture to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Will the zucchini flavor be noticeable in the brownies?

No, the zucchini adds moisture and nutrition without altering the classic chocolate brownie taste.

Can I make these brownies vegan?

You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a vegan applesauce and dairy-free chocolate chips.