This Healthy Zucchini brownies Recipe are a rich, indulgent chocolate treat that you can enjoy without feeling guilty. With applesauce, zucchini, semi-sweet chocolate chips, sugar, flour, and cocoa powder, these zucchini brownies are just as moist and decadent as traditional brownies, but with a healthier twist!

Close up shot of healthy zucchini brownies in my hand

Brownies have always been one of my favorite desserts. There’s just something about a sweet, chewy, chocolate-y brownie that I find absolutely irresistible! This zucchini brownies recipe is a fun and tasty variation of a traditional brownie recipe that packs in some hidden fruits and veggies. This zucchini brownies recipe is super simple to make – I’d even venture to say that it is just as easy as using a box mix, and you’ll feel better knowing exactly what is going into this healthy brownie recipe. If you’re looking for a delicious chocolate dessert recipe, you’ve found it!

When I say that these zucchini brownies are easy to make, I really mean it! To make these brownies with zucchini, start by mixing your applesauce, sugar, and vanilla (after you’ve prepared your pan, of course). Once these are mixed together, add in the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix all of this together. Don’t worry if this mixture seems really dry, it’s supposed to be that way for now! Next, fold in your zucchini and let the batter sit for a few minutes. The last step is to add in the chocolate chips and then your brownie batter will be ready to spread in the pan and bake. Soon you will have a tasty batch of zucchini brownies!

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Brownie Recipe

These zucchini brownies are a healthier alternative to traditional brownies.
This zucchini brownie recipe is simple to make.
Zucchini brownies are a great way to sneak some fruit and vegetables into your diet without even realizing that you are eating them.
Brownies with zucchini are simple to make and are a great alternative to box mix brownies.
Your whole family, even your little ones, will enjoy this healthy brownie recipe.

Ingredients For Your Easy Zucchini Brownies

1/2 cup applesauce
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 Tbsp. vanilla
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3 cups finely shredded zucchini, do not drain
1 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

three zucchini brownies stacked on top of each other, dusted with powder sugar. Brownies sit in the background

How to Make Zucchini Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl combine applesauce, sugar, and vanilla until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined. *Batter will be dry*

Step 4: Fold in zucchini and allow batter to rest for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Gently stir in chocolate chips until well combined.

Step 6: Spread brownie batter into prepared baking pan. Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy!

What to Serve/Pair with Your Zucchini Brownies

These brownies with zucchini are delicious on their own, but if you want to make them an extra indulgent treat, pair them with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and a cherry on top. You can even add sprinkles! Serve on top of ice cream with warm chocolate syrup for a hot fudge sundae! Anything that you would pair with classic brownies will pair well with this zucchini brownies recipe.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

If you don’t like semi-sweet chocolate chips, for these zucchini brownies you can use dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chips. I’ve even tried these with peanut butter chips!

Storage & Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover zucchini brownies (which almost never happens in my house), store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy your zucchini brownie warm, heat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Zucchini Brownies Recipe FAQs

Will I taste the zucchini in these brownies?

Nope! That’s one of my favorite things about this recipe. Zucchini takes the flavor of whatever it is cooked with, so you won’t taste it in these brownies. Talk about a great way to sneak in a veggie!

What does the applesauce do in this zucchini brownie recipe?

In this zucchini brownie recipe, the applesauce works similar to eggs. It gives the brownies moisture while also holding them together.

How will I know that these zucchini brownies are done baking?

To see if your zucchini brownies are completely baked, stick a toothpick in the middle. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Other Zucchini Recipes You’ll Love

Don’t Forget To Come Back And Let Me Know How Your Healthy Zucchini Brownies Recipe Turned Out!