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American·Snack

Flourless Chocolate Zucchini Bars

A dense, fudgy, and decadent bar made with a surprising amount of fresh zucchini, nut butter, and almond flour. These gluten-free treats use maple syrup for sweetness and are packed with dark chocolate chips and walnuts.

Prep

20m

Cook

40m

Total

60m

Serves

8

Method

  1. 01

    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan with oil and line with a parchment paper 'sling' that goes across the bottom and up two sides. Grate the zucchini using a box grater to get 2 packed cups.

    Step 1
    Watch · 0:23
  2. 02

    Place the grated zucchini in a dry kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much excess moisture as possible. Set the dry zucchini aside in the fridge while preparing the batter.

    Step 2
    Watch · 1:34
  3. 03

    In a large bowl, combine the nut butter, melted butter, eggs, and maple syrup. Whisk very slowly at first to prevent splashing, then increase speed until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.

    Step 3
    Watch · 2:09
  4. 04

    Stir in the salt, vanilla, and baking powder for about 30 seconds. Add the chopped walnuts, half of the dark chocolate chips, the almond flour, and the squeezed zucchini. Use a spatula to mix until thoroughly combined.

    Step 4
    Watch · 2:29
  5. 05

    Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the surface. Do not tap the pan on the counter, as this causes the chips to sink. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

    Step 5
    Watch · 3:22
  6. 06

    Let the bars cool in the pan to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator until ice cold. Once chilled, lift the parchment paper to remove the bars and slice into 8 large portions.

    Step 6
    Watch · 4:14
  7. 07

    Optional garnish: Simmer equal parts water and sugar to make a simple syrup. Add thin zucchini rounds sliced on a mandolin and cook for 1-2 minutes until translucent. Cool in the syrup and use to decorate the top of the bars.

    Step 7
    Watch · 5:20

From Chef John

  • “You'll be wasting time, which as you well know is by far the most valuable ingredient.”
  • “You guys are after all the angular miracles of your candied zucchini circles.”
  • “I decided to give this the old tapa tapa to settle the batter down... don't do that.”