Zucchini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Zucchini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are a unique twist on traditional cookies. They offer a delightful combination of flavors while sneaking in some vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier treat or trying to use up extra zucchini from the garden. The rolled oats add a chewy texture, while the chocolate chips bring in that sweet chocolatey goodness we all love. You can enjoy these cookies as a snack or a dessert, and they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How to Make Zucchini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix grated zucchini, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined.
3. Stir in melted butter or coconut oil and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is nicely combined.
6. Gently fold in the chocolate chips to the dough.
7. Drop tablespoons of the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them out.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Zucchini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are delightful served warm with a glass of milk or coffee. You can also serve them at parties or family gatherings. For a fun twist, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm cookie for a tasty dessert!

How to Store Zucchini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or briefly warm them in the microwave.

Tips to Make Zucchini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the grated zucchini before mixing it in. This helps keep the cookies from becoming too soggy.
• For extra flavor, you can add nuts or dried fruit to the dough.
• Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown and granulated sugar according to your taste.

Variation

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use mini chocolate chips for a fun twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I replace the chocolate chips with something else?
Absolutely! You can use dried fruits, nuts, or even white chocolate chips according to your preference.

3. How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make them vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegetable oil, and use a flax egg instead of the egg (mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes).