ZUCCHINI BROWNIES
Before you yuck my yum :), this was a client request. She had mentioned loving these when someone made them at work all the time and wanted a recipe. Of course the traditional recipes out there contain a lot of sugar and oil, so I did my best to reduce the excess fat, sugar and white flour, yet still create a dessert that provides you with nutrition AND a moist and yummy delight. I do not often bake with sugar substitutes, but this worked really well here. I suggest freezing in single portions, as they only maintain their shelf-life for a few days. They should be consumed warm, so microwave for 10β15 seconds, check for doneness, and gracefully indulge :). My family loved these Γ la mode, with a dollop of frozen yogurt on topπ§π.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 28 minutes mins
Total Time 48 minutes mins
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup sugar substitute for baking
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
- 2 cups shredded zucchini NOT drained β the more moisture, the better
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 Tablespoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips divided
- nonstick cooking spray
Preheat oven to 350ΛF. Place a full sheet of parchment paper in a 9x13 inch baking pan and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine applesauce, sugar substitute and cocoa. Use your hands and mix well until it forms a wet sand (this will get a little heavy to mix).
Add shredded zucchini, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda and salt. Mix until well-combined.
Stir in a half cup of the chocolate chips. Pour into prepared baking pan and sprinkle with remaining chocolate chips.
Bake for 25β28 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of the pan. Lift with parchment paper to remove from pan and cool on counter. Slice into 18 servings. Remember to serve warm!