Gluten-Free Zucchini Brownies

Ingredients

• 0.75 cup almond butter (The runnier the better)
• 0.333 cup maple syrup
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp espresso powder (Optional)
• 0.25 tsp baking soda
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 1 cup zucchini (Shredded; from approximately 1 small zucchini. Do not squeeze out the water.)
• 0.5 cup chocolate chips (Use chips of choice; dairy-free chips keep the brownies dairy-free)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make the brownies easier to remove.

2. 2

   Add the almond butter, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract to a medium mixing bowl. Whisk until the wet mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

3. 3

   Add the cocoa powder, optional espresso powder, baking soda, and salt to the bowl. Whisk again until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. The batter will be thick.

4. 4

   Add the shredded zucchini without squeezing out its moisture. Fold it into the batter until evenly distributed.

5. 5

   Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few for sprinkling on top if desired.

6. 6

   Transfer the thick batter to the parchment-lined baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

7. 7

   Bake for 22 to 28 minutes. Begin checking at 22 minutes because ovens vary. The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. For especially fudgy brownies, remove them earlier, bearing in mind that they continue baking as they cool.

8. 8

   Let the brownies cool enough to set, then lift them from the pan using the parchment. Slice into approximately 16 brownies and serve.

Notes

Makes approximately 16 brownies, depending on how they are cut. The creator specifically says not to squeeze the water out of the shredded zucchini. Store cooled brownies in an airtight container; chilling will make them firmer and even fudgier. Nutrition estimates include the optional espresso powder and may vary by almond butter and chocolate-chip brand.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• brownies
• baked
• gluten-free
• dairy-free
• refined-sugar-free
• vegetarian
• fudgy