Name: Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or ¾ cup SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Blend); ¾ cup (177ml) vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 ½ cups (approx. 152g) shredded zucchini (1 medium or 2 small); 1 ½ cups (255g) chocolate chips (mini or regular)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a treat that feels both indulgent and a little bit sneaky healthy, these Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars are exactly what you need. They combine the moist, tender crumb you crave in a dessert with the fresh, subtle earthiness of zucchini, all studded with melty pockets of chocolate chip goodness. This recipe is such a crowd-pleaser that once you bake your first batch, you won’t be able to stop sharing the love — and maybe a few bars, too!

Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a simple yet perfectly balanced way to create the magic behind these bars. Each item plays a role in delivering that moist texture, warm spice, or luscious chocolate hint that makes these Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars so irresistible.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that shapes the tender structure and holds everything together.
Ground cinnamon (1 ½ teaspoons): Adds warmth and a subtle spicy aroma that complements the sweetness.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bars rise lightly for a fluffy texture.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the bars just right — you can even swap with Stevia blend for a lighter version.
Vegetable oil (¾ cup): Keeps the bars moist and tender without being greasy.
Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and contribute to the richness.
Shredded zucchini (1 ½ cups): Sneaks in moisture, subtle freshness, and a lovely texture without overpowering the bars.
Chocolate chips (1 ½ cups): Provide those irresistible pockets of melty, sweet chocolate throughout every bite.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Get started by preheating your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, grease or spray a large baking pan — either a 10x15x1” jelly roll or a 9×13” pan works perfectly. This ensures the bars come out easily after baking without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until everything is nicely combined. This dry mix will give your bars their structure and that cozy spice flavor that’s key to these bars.

Step 3: Combine Sugar, Oil, and Eggs

In a larger mixing bowl, stir the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs vigorously until the mixture looks smooth and a little glossy. This step is essential for achieving a tender, moist crumb in your final bars.

Step 4: Bring Dry and Wet Ingredients Together

Now gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined — overmixing can make the bars tough, and we want them soft and tender!

Step 5: Fold in Zucchini and Chocolate Chips

The star ingredients come next: fold in the shredded zucchini carefully so it distributes evenly without squashing all the moisture out. Then, stir in your chocolate chips. Mini chips work wonderfully here for even distribution and bites of chocolate in every forkful.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 28 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon fill with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and chocolate — the best sign you’re on the right track.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once out of the oven, allow your Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars to cool completely before slicing. This cooling step helps everything set nicely, so the bars are neat and manageable instead of crumbly.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars

Garnishes

While these bars are delightful on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate them for special occasions. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also add a lovely touch of freshness and creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. For a more decadent dessert spread, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of frozen yogurt to complement the bars’ soft texture and warm flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with edible flowers or chopped nuts sprinkled over the top. You can even sandwich a thin layer of cream cheese frosting between two bars to make a zucchini bar “cookie” that’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars stay fresh best when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, just like right out of the oven.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars for longer storage without losing quality. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When you want a treat, just thaw at room temperature — no fuss!

Reheating

If you like your Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars warm, a quick zap in the microwave (about 15-20 seconds) works wonders to bring out that gooey chocolate and tender texture. Watch carefully to avoid overheating, which can dry them out.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour, but expect a slightly denser texture. For the best balance, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No need to peel! The skin is tender and adds a nice speckled appearance and additional nutrients, plus it blends seamlessly into the bars.

Can I make these bars vegan?

With some modifications, yes. You can replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water, and swap vegetable oil with coconut oil. Keep in mind, results might vary slightly in texture.

What’s the best way to shred zucchini for this recipe?

Use a box grater or food processor to get fine, even shreds. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel to prevent soggy bars.

Can I use dark or white chocolate chips instead of regular?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips add a richer, less sweet flavor, while white chocolate chips bring a creamy sweetness that contrasts nicely with the zucchini and cinnamon.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars have a special place in my heart because they offer the perfect harmony of healthy ingredients and dessert indulgence. Whether you’re sneaking veggies into your kids’ snacks or simply craving a delicious treat, these bars never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to make them and share the joy that each bite brings!

Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These moist and delicious Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars combine the goodness of shredded zucchini with sweet chocolate chips for a perfect snack or dessert. They offer a subtle cinnamon flavor and a tender crumb, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or ¾ cup SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Blend)
¾ cup (177ml) vegetable oil
3 large eggs

Additional Ingredients

1 ½ cups (approx. 152g) shredded zucchini (1 medium or 2 small)
1 ½ cups (255g) chocolate chips (mini or regular)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease or spray a 10x15x1” jelly roll pan or a 9×13” baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar (or sugar substitute), vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
Add Zucchini and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the shredded zucchini, ensuring it is well drained to remove excess moisture, followed by folding in the chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey taste.
Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into bars for clean cuts and to prevent crumbling.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month for longer storage.

Notes

Ensure the zucchini is well drained using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent excess moisture which can make the bars soggy.
Using mini chocolate chips distributes chocolate more evenly throughout the bars for consistent flavor in every bite.
For a lower sugar option, substitute granulated sugar with SPLENDA® Naturals Sugar & Stevia Blend as indicated.
You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture, but it will alter the original recipe.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American