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Healthy Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Butter

Healthy Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies - featured image

These cookies are moist, tender, and just sweet enough, using zucchini and applesauce instead of butter for a healthier treat that’s still delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Grate 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup) using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ½ cup unsweetened applesauce, ½ cup packed brown sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  3. Stir in the squeezed zucchini until evenly distributed.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (if using).
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
  6. Add ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and gently fold them into the batter.
  7. Optional: Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes for firmer cookies.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded scoops of dough about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
  10. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers still look soft.
  11. Transfer cookies to a cooling rack after 5 minutes on the baking sheet to prevent sogginess. Cool completely before storing.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to prevent soggy cookies. Mix gently to avoid tough cookies. Chilling dough helps with shape and texture but is optional. Rotate baking sheet halfway for even browning. Watch baking time closely to keep cookies soft and chewy.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy cookies, zucchini cookies, chocolate chip cookies, butter-free cookies, applesauce cookies, whole wheat cookies, gluten-free option, vegan option