Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread Moist and Delicious Treat

by
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 cup) - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey - 1/2 cup almond milk (or your choice of milk) - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup whole wheat flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt These ingredients make up the base of your healthy chocolate zucchini bread. The grated zucchini adds moisture while keeping it light. Unsweetened applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and keeps the loaf tender. Maple syrup or honey brings in sweetness without refined sugar. - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) If you want to kick up the flavor, add dark chocolate chips. They melt beautifully and create a rich taste. Chopped nuts give a nice crunch and extra nutrition. A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and complements the chocolate perfectly. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. 1. Preheating the Oven Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature works well for baking. Preheating is key to even baking. 2. Preparing the Loaf Pan Use a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Lightly grease it with oil, or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the bread come out easily. 1. Combining Zucchini and Applesauce Mixture In a large bowl, grate one medium zucchini. You need about one cup. Add half a cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the bread moist. 2. Incorporating Sweeteners and Milk Next, mix in half a cup of pure maple syrup or honey. Then, pour in half a cup of almond milk. Add one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for flavor. Stir until smooth. 1. Whisking Together the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk one cup of whole wheat flour with half a cup of cocoa powder. Add one teaspoon of baking soda, half a teaspoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of sea salt. If you like, include half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This helps mix everything evenly. 1. Method for Mixing Without Overmixing Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently. Stop mixing when just combined. It’s fine if the batter has a few lumps. 2. Folding in Chocolate Chips and Nuts Now, fold in half a cup of dark chocolate chips and, if you want, a quarter cup of chopped nuts. Do this carefully to keep the chips whole. You want them spread evenly. 1. Pouring Batter into the Loaf Pan Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This makes sure it bakes nicely. 2. Baking Times and Doneness Check Place the pan in the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This recipe gives you a moist and tasty treat. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. To make this chocolate zucchini bread even healthier, try swapping sweeteners. Instead of maple syrup, use agave syrup or mashed ripe bananas. Both options can cut sugar and add flavor. For flours, you can use almond flour or oat flour. These choices boost nutrition. If you want a dairy-free version, use nut milk, like almond or cashew milk. You can also opt for coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt. These swaps keep the bread moist and tasty while catering to dietary needs. The key to a great texture is not overmixing. Mix the batter until just combined. A few lumps are okay! This keeps the bread light and fluffy. To ensure moistness, add a little extra grated zucchini. If you like, you can also include a splash of additional almond milk. This makes each slice soft and delicious. For serving, slice the loaf on a wooden board. It looks rustic and inviting. You can dust the top with a bit of powdered sugar for a pretty touch. This bread pairs well with nut butter. Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices. You can also add sliced bananas or fresh berries on top for extra flavor. Enjoy this delicious treat anytime! {{image_4}} You can make this healthy chocolate zucchini bread even better by choosing different flours. Here are some great options: - Gluten-Free Options: Use almond flour or coconut flour. These flours add nice flavors and are gluten-free. Just remember to mix them well with other dry ingredients. Adjust the liquid as needed. - Other Whole Grain Choices: Try spelt flour or oat flour. Both add fiber and nutrients. They also give a unique taste. You can mix them with whole wheat flour for a balanced result. Adding different flavors can make your zucchini bread special. Here are some fun ideas: - Adding Different Spices or Extracts: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Vanilla or almond extract can give a lovely aroma. Just a teaspoon can change the whole taste. - Using Various Types of Chocolate: Instead of dark chocolate chips, try milk chocolate or white chocolate. Each type brings a new twist. You can even mix different kinds for a chocolate lover’s dream! Enhancing your bread with healthy extras is easy. Consider these add-ins: - Additional Fruits or Nut Combinations: You can add chopped apples or mashed bananas. They add moisture and sweetness. Nuts like walnuts or pecans bring crunch and healthy fats. - Incorporating Seeds for Extra Nutrition: Flaxseeds or chia seeds can boost the nutrition. They add omega-3s and fiber. Just a couple of tablespoons can make a big difference. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread fresh, start with room temperature storage. Place the bread in an airtight container. This method works well for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, consider refrigerating. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil first. Then store it in a sealed bag. This can help it stay fresh for about a week. Freezing is a great way to save your bread for later. First, slice the bread into pieces. This makes it easy to thaw just what you need. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. This method keeps the bread good for about 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, just take out what you need. Let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. If you want it warm, pop it in the oven for a few minutes. To maintain freshness, avoid exposing your bread to air. Use an airtight container or a sealed bag. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying out. For the best results, store your bread in a cool, dark place. A pantry or bread box works well. If you use the fridge, make sure to eat it within a week. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread longer. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section! What can I substitute for zucchini? If you don’t have zucchini, you can use applesauce or pumpkin puree. Both add moisture. They also blend well with the chocolate flavor. You might need to adjust the sugar if using applesauce. Can this recipe be made vegan? Yes! You can make this bread vegan easily. Just use plant milk and replace honey with maple syrup. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, you keep it tasty and friendly for all diets. How do I check if the bread is done? Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If it has wet batter on it, bake a bit longer. What are the health benefits of zucchini in baking? Zucchini adds moisture without extra fat. It’s low in calories and high in fiber. This helps keep you full and aids digestion. Plus, it includes vitamins A and C, which are good for skin and eyes. How many calories are in a slice of this bread? Each slice contains around 150 calories. This can vary based on your ingredients. If you use less sugar or skip nuts, it can be lower too. What to do if the bread is too dry? If the bread turns out dry, try adding a bit more applesauce or milk next time. You could also reduce the baking time slightly. This helps keep the moisture locked in better. How to fix an overly dense loaf? A dense loaf may mean you overmixed the batter. Next time, mix gently and just until combined. You can also make sure your baking soda and powder are fresh. This ensures they rise properly. In this post, I covered how to make Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread with simple steps. We explored key ingredients, from grated zucchini to sweeteners, and variations like chocolate chips. I shared tips for perfect texture and serving ideas. Remember, small changes can boost nutrition without losing flavor. Enjoy baking this delicious treat, and don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients. Your kitchen adventure is just starting, and these tips will guide you!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty way to sneak veggies into your diet? This Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread is your answer! It’s moist, chocolatey, and packed with hidden goodness. You don’t need to worry about sacrificing flavor for health. With simple ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create a loaf that your whole family will love!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

List of Ingredients Required

– 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 cup)

– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey

– 1/2 cup almond milk (or your choice of milk)

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1 cup whole wheat flour

– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

These ingredients make up the base of your healthy chocolate zucchini bread. The grated zucchini adds moisture while keeping it light. Unsweetened applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and keeps the loaf tender. Maple syrup or honey brings in sweetness without refined sugar.

Optional Ingredients for Variations

– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

If you want to kick up the flavor, add dark chocolate chips. They melt beautifully and create a rich taste. Chopped nuts give a nice crunch and extra nutrition. A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and complements the chocolate perfectly.

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps Before Mixing

1. Preheating the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature works well for baking. Preheating is key to even baking.

2. Preparing the Loaf Pan

Use a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Lightly grease it with oil, or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the bread come out easily.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

1. Combining Zucchini and Applesauce Mixture

In a large bowl, grate one medium zucchini. You need about one cup. Add half a cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the bread moist.

2. Incorporating Sweeteners and Milk

Next, mix in half a cup of pure maple syrup or honey. Then, pour in half a cup of almond milk. Add one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for flavor. Stir until smooth.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

1. Whisking Together the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk one cup of whole wheat flour with half a cup of cocoa powder. Add one teaspoon of baking soda, half a teaspoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of sea salt. If you like, include half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This helps mix everything evenly.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Method for Mixing Without Overmixing

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently. Stop mixing when just combined. It’s fine if the batter has a few lumps.

2. Folding in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Now, fold in half a cup of dark chocolate chips and, if you want, a quarter cup of chopped nuts. Do this carefully to keep the chips whole. You want them spread evenly.

Baking Process

1. Pouring Batter into the Loaf Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This makes sure it bakes nicely.

2. Baking Times and Doneness Check

Place the pan in the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

This recipe gives you a moist and tasty treat. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.

Tips & Tricks

Making Healthier Substitutions

To make this chocolate zucchini bread even healthier, try swapping sweeteners. Instead of maple syrup, use agave syrup or mashed ripe bananas. Both options can cut sugar and add flavor. For flours, you can use almond flour or oat flour. These choices boost nutrition.

If you want a dairy-free version, use nut milk, like almond or cashew milk. You can also opt for coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt. These swaps keep the bread moist and tasty while catering to dietary needs.

Perfecting the Bread Texture

The key to a great texture is not overmixing. Mix the batter until just combined. A few lumps are okay! This keeps the bread light and fluffy.

To ensure moistness, add a little extra grated zucchini. If you like, you can also include a splash of additional almond milk. This makes each slice soft and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, slice the loaf on a wooden board. It looks rustic and inviting. You can dust the top with a bit of powdered sugar for a pretty touch.

This bread pairs well with nut butter. Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices. You can also add sliced bananas or fresh berries on top for extra flavor. Enjoy this delicious treat anytime!

Variations

Flour Alternatives

You can make this healthy chocolate zucchini bread even better by choosing different flours. Here are some great options:

– Gluten-Free Options: Use almond flour or coconut flour. These flours add nice flavors and are gluten-free. Just remember to mix them well with other dry ingredients. Adjust the liquid as needed.

– Other Whole Grain Choices: Try spelt flour or oat flour. Both add fiber and nutrients. They also give a unique taste. You can mix them with whole wheat flour for a balanced result.

Flavor Variations

Adding different flavors can make your zucchini bread special. Here are some fun ideas:

– Adding Different Spices or Extracts: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Vanilla or almond extract can give a lovely aroma. Just a teaspoon can change the whole taste.

– Using Various Types of Chocolate: Instead of dark chocolate chips, try milk chocolate or white chocolate. Each type brings a new twist. You can even mix different kinds for a chocolate lover’s dream!

Healthier Add-Ins

Enhancing your bread with healthy extras is easy. Consider these add-ins:

– Additional Fruits or Nut Combinations: You can add chopped apples or mashed bananas. They add moisture and sweetness. Nuts like walnuts or pecans bring crunch and healthy fats.

– Incorporating Seeds for Extra Nutrition: Flaxseeds or chia seeds can boost the nutrition. They add omega-3s and fiber. Just a couple of tablespoons can make a big difference.

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Bread

To keep your Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread fresh, start with room temperature storage. Place the bread in an airtight container. This method works well for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, consider refrigerating. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil first. Then store it in a sealed bag. This can help it stay fresh for about a week.

Freezing the Bread

Freezing is a great way to save your bread for later. First, slice the bread into pieces. This makes it easy to thaw just what you need. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. This method keeps the bread good for about 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat it, just take out what you need. Let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. If you want it warm, pop it in the oven for a few minutes.

Top Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, avoid exposing your bread to air. Use an airtight container or a sealed bag. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying out.

For the best results, store your bread in a cool, dark place. A pantry or bread box works well. If you use the fridge, make sure to eat it within a week.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread longer. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section!

FAQs

Common Questions About Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread

What can I substitute for zucchini?

If you don’t have zucchini, you can use applesauce or pumpkin puree. Both add moisture. They also blend well with the chocolate flavor. You might need to adjust the sugar if using applesauce.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Yes! You can make this bread vegan easily. Just use plant milk and replace honey with maple syrup. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, you keep it tasty and friendly for all diets.

How do I check if the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If it has wet batter on it, bake a bit longer.

Nutrition Questions

What are the health benefits of zucchini in baking?

Zucchini adds moisture without extra fat. It’s low in calories and high in fiber. This helps keep you full and aids digestion. Plus, it includes vitamins A and C, which are good for skin and eyes.

How many calories are in a slice of this bread?

Each slice contains around 150 calories. This can vary based on your ingredients. If you use less sugar or skip nuts, it can be lower too.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

What to do if the bread is too dry?

If the bread turns out dry, try adding a bit more applesauce or milk next time. You could also reduce the baking time slightly. This helps keep the moisture locked in better.

How to fix an overly dense loaf?

A dense loaf may mean you overmixed the batter. Next time, mix gently and just until combined. You can also make sure your baking soda and powder are fresh. This ensures they rise properly.

In this post, I covered how to make Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread with simple steps. We explored key ingredients, from grated zucchini to sweeteners, and variations like chocolate chips. I shared tips for perfect texture and serving ideas.

Remember, small changes can boost nutrition without losing flavor. Enjoy baking this delicious treat, and don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients. Your kitchen adventure is just starting, and these tips will guide you!

- 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 cup) - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey - 1/2 cup almond milk (or your choice of milk) - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup whole wheat flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt These ingredients make up the base of your healthy chocolate zucchini bread. The grated zucchini adds moisture while keeping it light. Unsweetened applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and keeps the loaf tender. Maple syrup or honey brings in sweetness without refined sugar. - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) If you want to kick up the flavor, add dark chocolate chips. They melt beautifully and create a rich taste. Chopped nuts give a nice crunch and extra nutrition. A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and complements the chocolate perfectly. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. 1. Preheating the Oven Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature works well for baking. Preheating is key to even baking. 2. Preparing the Loaf Pan Use a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Lightly grease it with oil, or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the bread come out easily. 1. Combining Zucchini and Applesauce Mixture In a large bowl, grate one medium zucchini. You need about one cup. Add half a cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the bread moist. 2. Incorporating Sweeteners and Milk Next, mix in half a cup of pure maple syrup or honey. Then, pour in half a cup of almond milk. Add one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for flavor. Stir until smooth. 1. Whisking Together the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk one cup of whole wheat flour with half a cup of cocoa powder. Add one teaspoon of baking soda, half a teaspoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of sea salt. If you like, include half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This helps mix everything evenly. 1. Method for Mixing Without Overmixing Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently. Stop mixing when just combined. It’s fine if the batter has a few lumps. 2. Folding in Chocolate Chips and Nuts Now, fold in half a cup of dark chocolate chips and, if you want, a quarter cup of chopped nuts. Do this carefully to keep the chips whole. You want them spread evenly. 1. Pouring Batter into the Loaf Pan Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This makes sure it bakes nicely. 2. Baking Times and Doneness Check Place the pan in the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This recipe gives you a moist and tasty treat. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. To make this chocolate zucchini bread even healthier, try swapping sweeteners. Instead of maple syrup, use agave syrup or mashed ripe bananas. Both options can cut sugar and add flavor. For flours, you can use almond flour or oat flour. These choices boost nutrition. If you want a dairy-free version, use nut milk, like almond or cashew milk. You can also opt for coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt. These swaps keep the bread moist and tasty while catering to dietary needs. The key to a great texture is not overmixing. Mix the batter until just combined. A few lumps are okay! This keeps the bread light and fluffy. To ensure moistness, add a little extra grated zucchini. If you like, you can also include a splash of additional almond milk. This makes each slice soft and delicious. For serving, slice the loaf on a wooden board. It looks rustic and inviting. You can dust the top with a bit of powdered sugar for a pretty touch. This bread pairs well with nut butter. Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices. You can also add sliced bananas or fresh berries on top for extra flavor. Enjoy this delicious treat anytime! {{image_4}} You can make this healthy chocolate zucchini bread even better by choosing different flours. Here are some great options: - Gluten-Free Options: Use almond flour or coconut flour. These flours add nice flavors and are gluten-free. Just remember to mix them well with other dry ingredients. Adjust the liquid as needed. - Other Whole Grain Choices: Try spelt flour or oat flour. Both add fiber and nutrients. They also give a unique taste. You can mix them with whole wheat flour for a balanced result. Adding different flavors can make your zucchini bread special. Here are some fun ideas: - Adding Different Spices or Extracts: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Vanilla or almond extract can give a lovely aroma. Just a teaspoon can change the whole taste. - Using Various Types of Chocolate: Instead of dark chocolate chips, try milk chocolate or white chocolate. Each type brings a new twist. You can even mix different kinds for a chocolate lover’s dream! Enhancing your bread with healthy extras is easy. Consider these add-ins: - Additional Fruits or Nut Combinations: You can add chopped apples or mashed bananas. They add moisture and sweetness. Nuts like walnuts or pecans bring crunch and healthy fats. - Incorporating Seeds for Extra Nutrition: Flaxseeds or chia seeds can boost the nutrition. They add omega-3s and fiber. Just a couple of tablespoons can make a big difference. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread fresh, start with room temperature storage. Place the bread in an airtight container. This method works well for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, consider refrigerating. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil first. Then store it in a sealed bag. This can help it stay fresh for about a week. Freezing is a great way to save your bread for later. First, slice the bread into pieces. This makes it easy to thaw just what you need. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. This method keeps the bread good for about 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, just take out what you need. Let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. If you want it warm, pop it in the oven for a few minutes. To maintain freshness, avoid exposing your bread to air. Use an airtight container or a sealed bag. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying out. For the best results, store your bread in a cool, dark place. A pantry or bread box works well. If you use the fridge, make sure to eat it within a week. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread longer. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section! What can I substitute for zucchini? If you don’t have zucchini, you can use applesauce or pumpkin puree. Both add moisture. They also blend well with the chocolate flavor. You might need to adjust the sugar if using applesauce. Can this recipe be made vegan? Yes! You can make this bread vegan easily. Just use plant milk and replace honey with maple syrup. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, you keep it tasty and friendly for all diets. How do I check if the bread is done? Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If it has wet batter on it, bake a bit longer. What are the health benefits of zucchini in baking? Zucchini adds moisture without extra fat. It’s low in calories and high in fiber. This helps keep you full and aids digestion. Plus, it includes vitamins A and C, which are good for skin and eyes. How many calories are in a slice of this bread? Each slice contains around 150 calories. This can vary based on your ingredients. If you use less sugar or skip nuts, it can be lower too. What to do if the bread is too dry? If the bread turns out dry, try adding a bit more applesauce or milk next time. You could also reduce the baking time slightly. This helps keep the moisture locked in better. How to fix an overly dense loaf? A dense loaf may mean you overmixed the batter. Next time, mix gently and just until combined. You can also make sure your baking soda and powder are fresh. This ensures they rise properly. In this post, I covered how to make Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread with simple steps. We explored key ingredients, from grated zucchini to sweeteners, and variations like chocolate chips. I shared tips for perfect texture and serving ideas. Remember, small changes can boost nutrition without losing flavor. Enjoy baking this delicious treat, and don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients. Your kitchen adventure is just starting, and these tips will guide you!

Healthy Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Indulge in the delightful flavors of decadent healthy chocolate zucchini bread that’s guilt-free and simply irresistible! This easy recipe combines grated zucchini, rich cocoa, and dark chocolate chips for a moist and delicious treat. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Click through to discover how to whip up this chocolatey delight in just an hour, and enjoy a slice of happiness today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 medium zucchini, grated (approximately 1 cup)

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey

1/2 cup almond milk (or your preferred milk)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (use dairy-free for a vegan option)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, optional)

Instructions
 

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all wet ingredients are well incorporated.

      In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, sea salt, and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it) to ensure even distribution.

        Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.

          Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) carefully to prevent breaking the chips. Ensure they are evenly scattered throughout the batter.

            Pour the completed batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula for a smooth surface.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

                Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

                  - Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr | Makes 8 slices

                    - Presentation Tips: Slice the loaf and serve on a rustic wooden board, dusting with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. Enjoy each slice warm or toasted with a smear of nut butter for a delightful treat!

                      WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?