These easy zucchini brownies are a tasty treat made with just three simple ingredients! You won’t believe how delicious they are, and they’re a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Honestly, who knew brownies could be so healthy? I love these because they’re moist and chocolaty. Perfect for when I want a sweet snack but also want to feel a bit virtuous. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the recipe! Use a medium zucchini, finely grated and squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use shredded carrots for a fun twist.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Nutella is the classic choice, bringing chocolatey goodness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a nut butter mixed with cocoa powder. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ a bit.
Eggs: They help bind the brownies. If you need a vegan version, substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water). Both work well!
How Do I Ensure My Brownies Bake Perfectly?
Baking the zucchini brownies is straightforward, but here are some tips to get them just right:
- Make sure the oven is preheated to 350°F; this helps the brownies rise properly.
- Mix the eggs and hazelnut spread until smooth before adding the zucchini. This helps create a nice, even texture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; start checking around 20 minutes. You want the brownies to be set but still moist when tested with a toothpick.
- Let them cool completely in the pan for the best texture before cutting into squares.
Trust me, these brownies will be a hit, so enjoy the baking experience!
Easy 3-Ingredient Zucchini Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup finely grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
- 2 large eggs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious brownie recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. All in, you’ll be enjoying your brownies in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. While it’s heating up, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with some butter or oil, or line it with parchment paper to make removal easier.
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them together until they are smooth and slightly frothy. This step is crucial because it helps create a light texture for your brownies!
3. Mix in the Hazelnut Spread:
Next, add the chocolate hazelnut spread to the whisked eggs. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. It should look creamy and luscious!
4. Fold in the Zucchini:
Now, carefully fold in the grated zucchini. Make sure it’s well squeezed to get rid of excess moisture. Stir until the zucchini is evenly distributed in the batter. You won’t even taste the zucchini, but it will keep your brownies moist!
5. Pour and Smooth the Batter:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top so it looks nice and neat. We’re almost there!
6. Bake the Brownies:
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them: they are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the brownies out and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Finally, cut into squares and enjoy your tasty, fudgy zucchini brownies!
Enjoy your quick, fudgy zucchini brownies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use an Alternative to Chocolate Hazelnut Spread?
Absolutely! You can substitute with any nut butter (like almond or peanut butter) mixed with cocoa powder for a similar chocolate flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste might vary slightly.
Can I Make These Brownies Vegan?
Yes! To make these brownies vegan, replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Both options work well and maintain the brownie’s texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well before freezing!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins to These Brownies?
Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload it too much to maintain the brownie’s consistency. Enjoy experimenting!
