Chocolate Zucchini Muffins – Gluten Free

Chocolate Zucchini Muffins – Gluten Free are a delightful way to enjoy a little indulgence while sneaking in some veggies. You might think, “Chocolate and zucchini? Really?” But trust me, this combination is pure magic. The rich chocolate flavor steals the show while the zucchini keeps the muffins moist and soft. It’s a genius trick for those who want to enjoy a sweet treat without feeling guilty.

What’s more, these muffins are made with almond flour, which means they are not only gluten-free but also bring a lovely, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cocoa. The sweetness comes from natural ingredients like maple syrup and unsweetened applesauce. Cooking up a batch of these tasty little morsels is an event worth celebrating, whether for a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a fun dessert. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get ready to conquer the world of Chocolate Zucchini Muffins – Gluten Free that everyone, including the kids, will adore!

Why This Recipe Works

This Chocolate Zucchini Muffins recipe combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the healthy benefits of zucchini, creating a moist and decadent treat. The almond flour provides a gluten-free base while contributing a nutty flavor that complements the cocoa beautifully. Using maple syrup and unsweetened applesauce not only enhances the sweetness but also keeps these muffins moist without the need for refined sugar.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Zucchini Muffins – Gluten Free

Chocolate Zucchini Muffins are the perfect guilt-free indulgence. They are easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and remain irresistibly fudgy. Plus, they are a great way to sneak some veggies into kids’ diets without them even noticing! Each bite provides a heavenly taste of chocolate combined with the delicate texture of zucchini.

Ingredients List

• 1 + ¼ cup blanched almond flour
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 large egg, lightly whisked
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup creamy almond butter
• ¼ cup non-dairy milk (almond or coconut milk)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded zucchini (water squeezed out)
• ⅔ cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping)

Prepping Your Muffin Mixture

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin pan with muffin liners. This step is critical for easy removal later.

Prepare the Zucchini

Shred the zucchini using a box grater. Then, place the shredded zucchini into a clean kitchen towel and wring out the excess water. This step is crucial for preventing soggy muffins!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir them together until well mixed, ensuring an even distribution.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the whisked egg, maple syrup, applesauce, almond butter, non-dairy milk, olive oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This step layers in the flavors that will make your muffins sing.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix well. Carefully fold in the prepared shredded zucchini and chocolate chips. Be gentle here; you want everything to blend harmoniously without overmixing.

Bake the Muffins

Divide the batter evenly into the muffin pan cavities. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen right now? That’s nothing short of heavenly!

Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy these delicious, decadent chocolate zucchini muffins warm or at room temperature!

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Zucchini Muffins are versatile snacks that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Delight in them alongside your morning coffee, pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet treat, or serve them at brunch gatherings. Top with additional chocolate chips or a drizzle of almond butter for an extra indulgence.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Skip the Drying Step: Ensuring the zucchini is well-drained is key to achieving the perfect muffin texture.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, let your eggs and milk reach room temperature before mixing.
3. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to add more or less maple syrup based on your taste preference.

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute the almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
• Add Nut Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture, spreading the joy even further.
• Flavor Enhancements: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist, introducing aromatic depth.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick treat!

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of flour?
While this recipe is designed for almond flour, you can try other gluten-free flours, but the texture may vary.

2. How do I ensure my muffins stay moist?
Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini and follow the recipe measurements closely.

3. Can I make these muffins vegan?
Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of the regular egg, and you’re good to go!

4. What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives, although those would make them not vegan.

5. How can I tell when the muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!

Enjoy your delightful, fudgy Chocolate Zucchini Muffins that everyone will love! What may seem like a health-focused recipe truly turns out to be a delicious treat, blending nutrition with indulgence. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these muffins are sure to be a hit in your household!

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