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Before diving into the delightful world of baking your guilt-free zucchini brownie bars, it's crucial to prepare your kitchen. A well-organized workspace will streamline the baking process, making it efficient and enjoyable.

Guilt-Free Zucchini Brownie Bars

Discover a deliciously guilt-free dessert with these Zucchini Brownie Bars! Perfect for health-conscious sweet lovers, this recipe combines zucchini for moisture, unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness, and healthy fats like coconut oil. Packed with nutrients and lower in sugar, these fudgy treats satisfy your chocolate cravings while providing fiber and vitamins. Enjoy a healthier indulgence that feels indulgent without the excess calories. Perfect for impressing friends at gatherings!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 cup)

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)

1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for extra sweetness)

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

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. If it’s very watery, pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, unsweetened applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until thoroughly mixed.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

            Pour & Spread: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

                Cool & Cut: Allow the brownie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

                  Serve & Enjoy: These Guilt-Free Zucchini Brownie Bars can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 9-12 servings