Zucchini brownies

It’s the time of year when zucchinis are abundant around here.  Right now there are 3 big ones sitting on my counter, and several smaller ones waiting to be picked.  I’ll definitely use some for these zucchini enchiladas, because they were incredibly delicious, but I knew this brownie recipe would be a hit with my kids and their friends too.  It was funny listening to my daughter tell her friends that the brownies were baked with a secret ingredient.  She refused to divulge what it was until there was nothing left but crumbs.   After finding out he just ate zucchini, one of the boys said he guessed that meant he was “living a healthy lifestyle now.”  hehe

These brownies are rich and decadent, and no one would guess that they’re made with zucchini.  My kids were dubious, but as soon as they saw all the chocolate, they  happily devoured them.  If you’re looking for a sweet way to use up that giant zucchini growing in your garden, I highly recommend giving these a try.

Recipe:  Zucchini Brownies

(adapted from allrecipes; found at KitchMe)

1/2 c. canola oil
1 1/2 c. granulated sugar
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. kosher salt
2 c. shredded zucchini
1/2 c. dark chocolate chips
Frosting:
6 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 c. unsalted butter
2 c. powdered sugar
1/4 c. milk, any fat content
1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and grease and flour a 9×9″ baking pan.

In a large bowl, mix together the oil, sugar, and 2 tsp. vanilla until well blended.  Combine flour, 1/2 c. cocoa, baking soda, and salt; stir into the sugar mixture.  Fold in zucchini and chocolate chips.  Spread evenly in prepared pan.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted an inch from the edge of the pan comes out with just a few crumbs.  Cool completely and frost.

To make frosting, melt together 6 Tbsp. cocoa and butter.  Set aside to cool a bit.  In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 tsp. vanilla.  Add the cocoa mixture and blend thoroughly.  Spread over cooled brownies.