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Fudgy Hidden Vegetable Brownies

fudgy hidden vegetable brownies - featured image

These fudgy hidden vegetable brownies blend classic comfort with a healthy twist by pureeing fresh spinach and zucchini into the batter, creating a moist, rich treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, tightly packed
  • 1 medium zucchini, peeled and grated
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (can swap with almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp espresso powder (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil or applesauce)
  • 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or chunks (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Roughly chop 1 cup fresh spinach and 1 medium zucchini, then puree them in a food processor or blender until smooth. If unavailable, grate zucchini finely and finely chop spinach.
  3. In a large bowl, sift together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir in 1 tsp espresso powder if using. Set aside.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 large eggs, and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes). Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup vegetable oil until fully incorporated.
  5. Add the pureed veggies into the wet mixture and mix well. The batter will look dark and glossy.
  6. Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients with a spatula, mixing just until combined—do not overmix.
  7. Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks for extra melty goodness.
  8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep brownies fudgy.
  10. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Puree the veggies well for a smooth texture and less noticeable vegetable flavor. Do not overmix the batter to maintain fudginess. Use parchment paper for easy removal. Let brownies cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling. Optional espresso powder enhances chocolate flavor without coffee taste. For vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: fudgy brownies, hidden vegetables, spinach brownies, zucchini brownies, healthy dessert, easy brownies, wholesome treat, chocolate brownies