Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes 🍫🥒

Introduction

When I first tried making Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes, I was skeptical about how zucchini would taste in a dessert. However, the moment I took a bite of the moist, fluffy cupcakes, my doubts melted away. The rich chocolate flavor was perfectly complemented by the subtle sweetness of the zucchini, and the dreamy orange ganache frosting elevated the entire experience. My family couldn’t get enough of them! These cupcakes became an instant hit at our gatherings, proving that a little vegetable can go a long way in enhancing flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or simply indulging on a weekend, these cupcakes are sure to impress!

Ingredients

Cupcake Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder + 2 tbsp
• 1 tsp instant coffee granules (decaf OK)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup canola oil + 2 tbsp
• 1 ½ cups finely grated zucchini (loose)
• 1 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips

Orange-Ganache Frosting:

• 4 ½ oz semi-sweet chocolate morsels
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp orange extract
• Optional: Finely shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line or grease a standard muffin pan to prepare for the cupcakes.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, coffee granules, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This combination will create a rich and chocolatey base for your cupcakes.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Then, add the canola oil, finely grated zucchini, and mini chocolate chips. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; you want just enough to combine everything well.

Step 5: Bake

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Make Ganache

While the cupcakes cool, prepare the orange ganache frosting. In a saucepan, heat the semi-sweet chocolate morsels and heavy cream over low heat. Stir until smooth and combined. Add the orange extract, mix well, and allow the ganache to cool until it thickens enough to frost the cupcakes.

Step 7: Frost & Garnish

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the orange ganache. For an extra touch, sprinkle finely shredded coconut on top if desired.

Enjoy

Serve your delightful Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes at your next gathering or enjoy them as a sweet treat any day of the week!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 standard cupcakes
• Calories: 200 per cupcake
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the cupcakes on a decorative platter for a festive touch.
• Garnish with fresh orange slices or additional sprinkles for extra flair.
• Pair with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Zucchini: Grate fresh zucchini for the best flavor and moisture.
2. Don’t Skip the Coffee: The instant coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
3. Chill the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool and thicken to make frosting easier.
4. Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
5. Customize Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts or different types of chocolate.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream.
• Different Flavors: Try adding mint extract for a mint chocolate zucchini cupcake variation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at birthday parties, baby showers, or holiday gatherings for a delightful dessert option.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise for kids.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the un-frosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of chocolate?

• Yes, you can use dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate if you prefer.

1. What can I substitute for canola oil?

• You can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil as alternatives.

1. How do I know when the cupcakes are done?

• Insert a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them the day you plan to serve.

1. How do I prevent cupcakes from sticking to the pan?

• Ensure to line the pan with paper liners or grease it well with non-stick spray.

1. Can I use frozen zucchini?

• Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding to the batter.

1. What if my ganache is too runny?

• Allow it to cool longer or whisk in a little more chocolate to thicken it.

1. How can I make these cupcakes more chocolatey?

• Increase the amount of cocoa powder slightly or add more chocolate chips.

1. Can I omit the orange extract?

• Yes, you can substitute it with vanilla extract for a more traditional chocolate cupcake flavor.

1. Are these cupcakes healthy?
   • While they do contain zucchini, they are still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation!

Conclusion

These Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes are a delightful way to incorporate a healthy ingredient into a rich and indulgent dessert. The combination of moist chocolate cupcakes topped with a luscious orange ganache makes for a unique treat that will please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to brighten your day with something sweet, these cupcakes are the perfect solution. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!

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