Description
Deliciously moist and tender chocolate chip zucchini bars that combine the subtle sweetness of zucchini with rich semi-sweet chocolate chips. These bars are perfect as a wholesome dessert or a snack, offering a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a treat. The recipe is quick to prepare with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup finely shredded zucchini (moisture squeezed out)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Incorporate zucchini: Stir in the finely shredded zucchini, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined without overmixing to maintain moist texture.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Carefully fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter to ensure an even distribution.
- Bake the bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and spread it out smoothly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 9 squares to serve.
Notes
- For added crunch and flavor, try incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
- These bars stay moist and fresh for several days when stored in an airtight container and are ideal for lunchboxes or snacks.
- To reduce fat content, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce without compromising moisture.
