Death by Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract 

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup smooth applesauce 

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour (regular pastry flour works too, or use all-purpose flour)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 large zucchini)

1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips 

Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees, with a rack in the center of the oven.

Line an 8x8 square baking pan with parchment paper allowing the edges to drape over the pan for easy removal. 

Lightly spray the parchment with cooking spray and set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla, sugar, applesauce (or butter or oil if using), zucchini and salt until combined.

Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, cinnamon and cardamom.  Add the flour mixture to the wet mixture and stir just to combine.

Add the chocolate chips and mix to incorporate.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.  Bake the brownies at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out relatively clean.

Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.

Happy Cooking!