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Fudgy Double-Chocolate Zucchini Brownies Recipe With Espresso Sea Salt For The Perfect Treat

fudgy double-chocolate zucchini brownies - featured image

These fudgy double-chocolate zucchini brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with a subtle veggie boost and a unique espresso sea salt topping for a perfectly balanced indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour (for gluten-free, substitute with almond flour)
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup dark chocolate chunks or chips
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional but key for depth)
  • Coarse sea salt (like Maldon flakes) for topping
  • ½ teaspoon finely ground espresso beans or instant espresso powder for topping

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the zucchini. Shred finely using a box grater or food processor. Place shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible (about 5 minutes).
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and instant espresso powder until smooth and glossy (about 3 minutes).
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Fold in shredded zucchini and chocolate chunks last, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
  6. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with a pinch of coarse sea salt mixed with finely ground espresso powder.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  8. Cool brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before lifting out using parchment overhang. Cut and serve.

Notes

Squeeze zucchini dry thoroughly to avoid soggy brownies. Use instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor without coffee taste. Do not overmix batter to keep brownies tender. Sprinkle sea salt with espresso powder on top before baking for a subtle crunch and flavor contrast. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and eggs with flax or chia eggs. Frozen zucchini can be used if thawed and squeezed dry. Add nuts or spices for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini brownies, double chocolate brownies, fudgy brownies, espresso sea salt, healthy dessert, gluten-free option, dairy-free option, vegan brownies