Peanut Butter Zucchini Brownies

Name: Peanut Butter Zucchini Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup grated zucchini; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Indulge in these rich and fudgy Peanut Butter Zucchini Brownies that are secretly packed with nutritious zucchini. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:29:51.406Z

These Peanut Butter Zucchini Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies. By incorporating zucchini, you add moisture and nutrients without compromising on flavor. Perfect for a snack or dessert!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by creamy peanut butter
Moist and fudgy texture with hidden veggies
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends

      

The Benefits of Zucchini in Baked Goods

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that adds moisture and nutrients to baked goods. When incorporated into recipes like brownies, it enhances the texture while remaining virtually undetectable. This means you can enjoy a decadent treat without worrying about consuming excess calories. The natural moisture from zucchini helps create a rich, fudgy consistency that is simply irresistible!

Additionally, zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, making it a fantastic choice for healthy baking. It contributes dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. By sneaking in this nutritious vegetable, you can indulge guilt-free, knowing that you’re also boosting your nutrient intake.

Peanut Butter: A Nutritious Addition

Peanut butter is not just a delicious spread; it's also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporating peanut butter into your brownie recipe not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy richness that balances the chocolate perfectly. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a classic for a reason—it’s a match made in dessert heaven!

Moreover, peanut butter provides a satisfying texture that complements the fudgy brownies. It's an excellent source of energy, making these brownies a perfect pick-me-up snack. Just be cautious with portion sizes, as it's calorie-dense. When made in moderation, these brownies can be a delightful, nutritious treat for any time of day.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

To achieve the perfect brownie texture, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure you have the precise amounts needed for that fudgy consistency. Additionally, when mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. This helps maintain the brownies' moist texture, preventing them from becoming tough.

Another tip is to allow the brownies to cool before cutting them into squares. This cooling time helps them set, making it easier to achieve clean, beautiful edges. If you’re a fan of extra indulgence, consider adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or a scoop of ice cream on top when serving. These small touches elevate your brownies from delicious to divine!

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup grated zucchini
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Mix all ingredients well and ensure a smooth batter for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini and peanut butter. Mix in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature for the best experience!

Serving Suggestions

These Peanut Butter Zucchini Brownies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or enjoy them chilled for a refreshing snack. They’re also great for potlucks, parties, or as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes. Their rich chocolate flavor and hidden veggies make them a hit among kids and adults alike.

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some sea salt on top before serving. The contrast of sweet and salty enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors, making each bite even more delightful. You can also pair these brownies with fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries, to add a fresh twist to your dessert.

Storage Tips

To keep your brownies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, these brownies freeze beautifully. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in these Peanut Butter Zucchini Brownies, it's helpful to know their nutritional benefits. Each brownie is a delicious source of protein and healthy fats from the peanut butter, while also supplying dietary fiber and essential vitamins from the zucchini. This combination not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also supports a balanced diet.

Keep in mind that portion control is key. Although these brownies are made with healthier ingredients, they still contain sugars and fats. Consider enjoying them as a treat rather than an everyday snack, and share them with friends and family to make the indulgence even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter works well as a substitute!

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ Is it necessary to peel the zucchini?

No, you can leave the skin on for added nutrients, just make sure to wash it well.