Chocolate Zucchini Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 3 small zucchini (or more as needed)
• 3/4 cup pistachio butter or almond butter
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup almond flour

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Grease an 8x8-inch square baking pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs on two sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Grate 2 heaping cups of zucchini into a bowl. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture. Measure out 2 packed cups of the grated zucchini and place it in the refrigerator to chill until needed.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, add the nut butter, melted butter, eggs, and maple syrup. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Stir in the kosher salt, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Whisk briefly to incorporate all the ingredients.

Step 5: Add the walnuts, half of the chocolate chips, almond flour, and the chilled zucchini into the bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top of the batter.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean, they are ready.

Step 8: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. After it cools, cover the pan and refrigerate the bars until they are well chilled.

Step 9: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	545
Total Fat	43g (55% DV)
Saturated Fat	14g (68% DV)
Cholesterol	77mg (26% DV)
Sodium	287mg (12% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	37g (13% DV)
Dietary Fiber	6g (21% DV)
Total Sugars	27g
Protein	11g (23% DV)
Vitamin C	6mg (7% DV)
Calcium	214mg (16% DV)
Iron	3mg (15% DV)
Potassium	558mg (12% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Chocolate Zucchini Bars

Chocolate zucchini bars are a modern twist on traditional baked goods that combine vegetables with sweet treats. Their origins trace back to mid-20th century America, when home bakers sought creative ways to incorporate vegetables into desserts. Zucchini, with its mild flavor and high moisture content, became a popular choice, allowing cakes and bars to remain moist without relying heavily on butter or oil. The rise of health-conscious baking in the 1970s and 1980s further popularized zucchini desserts, positioning them as a wholesome alternative to conventional chocolate brownies.

Regional Characteristics

While chocolate zucchini bars are enjoyed across the United States, certain regions have unique variations. In the Northeast, bakers often add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture, while in the West, almond flour and maple syrup are more commonly used to accommodate gluten-free and natural sweetener preferences. Southern versions sometimes incorporate cocoa powder and a hint of cinnamon, creating a richer and spicier flavor profile. Despite these differences, the core concept of combining grated zucchini with chocolate remains consistent nationwide.

How They Differ from Similar Desserts

Unlike traditional brownies, chocolate zucchini bars include shredded zucchini, which increases moisture while reducing the need for excessive fat. This subtle vegetable inclusion makes the bars slightly lighter and more tender than classic brownies. They also differ from zucchini bread, which is typically loaf-shaped and less chocolaty. Bars offer a denser, fudgier texture similar to brownies but with a vegetable-enhanced twist, bridging the gap between indulgence and nutrition.

Typical Serving Occasions

Chocolate zucchini bars are versatile and can be served for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. They are popular at bake sales, family gatherings, and casual coffee breaks. Some people serve them chilled, straight from the refrigerator, which enhances their fudgy texture, while others enjoy them slightly warmed with a drizzle of chocolate or a scoop of ice cream. Their portability and ease of slicing make them ideal for parties or lunchbox treats.

Interesting Facts

• Despite containing zucchini, the vegetables flavor is nearly undetectable, making it appealing even to picky eaters.
• Chocolate zucchini bars are naturally moist and can stay fresh for several days when stored in the refrigerator, thanks to the water content in zucchini.
• They are often made gluten-free by using almond or other nut flours, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Some bakers experiment with toppings such as chocolate chunks, nuts, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to create a signature version.
• These bars have become a symbol of creative, health-conscious baking, combining indulgence with hidden nutrition.

FAQ about Chocolate Zucchini Bars Recipe

Comments