This easy Zucchini Brownies have a rich chocolate frosting on top! The zucchini has such a mild flavor that you won't even know it's in this dessert and it satisfies the sweet tooth.
1/2cupvegetable oil, (you can replace half with applesauce if you want)
1 1/2cupswhite sugar
2teaspoonsvanilla extract
2cupsall-purpose or whole wheat flour
1/2cupunsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2teaspoonsbaking soda
1teaspoonsalt
2cupsshredded zucchini
Frosting:
6tablespoonsunsweetened cocoa powder
1/4cupbutter
2cupspowdered sugar
1/4cupmilk
1/2teaspoonvanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the oil, applesauce, sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla until well blended. Combine flour, 1/2 cup cocoa, baking soda and salt; stir into the sugar mixture. Mixture will be dry until you add the grated zucchini. If your zucchini is really wet use paper towels to squeeze out some moisture. Stir in the zucchini. Spread brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. The zucchini will release moisture as it bakes.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until brownies spring back when gently touched.
For the frosting: Melt together the 6 tablespoons of cocoa and margarine and set aside to cool. In a medium bowl, blend together the confectioners' sugar, milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in the cocoa mixture. Spread over cooled brownies before cutting into squares. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Notes
PRO TIPS:
Shred the zucchini with a food processor or a grater.
Zucchini is really wet when shredded. Use paper towels to squeeze out some of the moisture.