If you’re searching for a treat that makes the most of summer’s bounty and delivers a delectable dose of chocolatey goodness, look no further than Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars. They’re the perfect fusion of moist zucchini cake and classic chocolate chip bars, with a tender crumb, buttery flavor, and plenty of melty chocolate in every bite. These dessert bars are incredibly simple to make, packing both flavor and sneaky veggies into a snack that’s wonderful for gatherings, snacks, or even breakfast alongside coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of wholesome pantry staples and one fresh zucchini, you’ll be amazed how these ingredients transform into irresistibly soft and chocolate-studded bars. Each one adds dimension, whether it’s warmth from cinnamon or rich moisture from zucchini. Here’s what you need:
- Grated zucchini: Moisture-rich and nutritious, zucchini makes the bars incredibly soft—just be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible so your bars aren’t soggy.
- All-purpose flour: The main structure for the bars; you can swap half for whole wheat for a little added heartiness without sacrificing tenderness.
- Baking soda: A gentle lift and subtle chewiness starts here.
- Baking powder: Adds a bit of extra rise, keeping the bars from becoming too dense.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings cozy, slightly spiced undertones that pair beautifully with zucchini and chocolate.
- Salt: Essential to balance the sweetness and deepen all those wonderful flavors.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Provides rich flavor and the perfect amount of moisture for a soft crumb.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness and helps retain moisture.
- Granulated sugar: For just the right balance of sweetness alongside the brown sugar.
- Large egg: Binds everything together and adds tenderness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor and gives the bars bakery-style depth.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite—what more could you ask for?
How to Make Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake right from the start. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it, which makes lifting out your bars a breeze later on.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This not only blends everything evenly, it helps prevent clumps so your Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars are fluffy and light.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture looks creamy and smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate for a dreamy, buttery base.
Step 4: Add the Zucchini
Stir in the grated zucchini, making sure to squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible beforehand. The zucchini should meld seamlessly into the batter, adding moisture and those lovely flecks of green.
Step 5: Combine the Batter
Gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make the bars tough, so stop as soon as you no longer see any streaks of flour.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in those glorious semi-sweet chocolate chips, saving a small handful to sprinkle on top if you want extra chocolate pools on the surface.
Step 7: Bake
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Allow the Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars to cool completely in the pan—they slice cleanest when fully set.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt brings out the chocolate’s richness, or dust with a little powdered sugar for a charming, bakery-style finish. You could even drizzle melted chocolate across the tops for a bit of drama when serving guests.
Side Dishes
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a cozy mug of coffee, or even a tangy yogurt parfait for breakfast. For a summer picnic, add fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make these bars extra celebratory.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your bars into bite-sized squares for a party platter or layering slices into a trifle with whipped cream and berries. For a fun twist, sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two bars for a zucchini-chocolate chip ice cream sandwich!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The bars actually get even softer and more flavorful by the next day, making them an excellent make-ahead option.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Place cooled, sliced bars in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature or give them a quick zap in the microwave for that freshly-baked feel anytime.
Reheating
To refresh a bar, warm it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The chocolate will melt just enough, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven coziness. You can also briefly warm several bars in a low oven if serving a crowd.
FAQs
Can I make Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. Make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best chewy bars.
Do I need to peel the zucchini first?
No need to peel the zucchini—the skin is tender and adds lovely color plus extra nutrition. Just wash it well and grate; no one will ever know it’s there!
Can I add nuts or swap the chocolate chips?
Definitely. Fold in a half-cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even white chocolate chips to add crunch or variety, making the Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars truly your own.
Why do I need to squeeze the zucchini?
Removing excess moisture from the grated zucchini is key to achieving perfectly moist (not soggy!) bars. A simple squeeze in a clean towel is all it takes—don’t skip this step.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, the recipe doubles easily. Just use a 9×13-inch pan and bake for a few extra minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick in the center.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars combine summer garden freshness with decadent, gooey chocolate for a treat that wins over everyone—kids and grownups alike. They’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Trust me, you’ll want to bake a batch the moment you spot that extra zucchini in your kitchen!
