FITNESS & HEALTH - RECIPES

Zucchini Double Chocolate Protein Muffins for the Hangry Toddler

These Double Chocolate Zucchini Muffins are not only rich, moist, and delicious, but they’re also secretly packed with veggies! Thanks to the finely grated zucchini and a protein boost by the yogurt, they make the perfect kid-friendly snack (even for picky eaters who claim they don’t like vegetables!).

They are also freezer-friendly, so you can make a batch ahead of time and have a nutritious grab-and-go option for busy mornings.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups plain flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup neutral oil of choice (e.g., coconut, avocado, or vegetable oil)
  • ¾ cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 medium banana, mashed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1 cup finely grated zucchini (not drained!)
  • ½ cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping!)

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep – Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, beat together the oil, Greek yogurt, mashed banana, eggs, vanilla, and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in the grated zucchini.
  4. Combine & Fold – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix!). Fold in the chocolate chips.
  5. Fill & Bake – Divide the batter evenly among the muffin liners, filling each about ¾ full. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
  6. Bake & Cool – Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months! Just pop one in the microwave for 20-30 seconds when ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love These Muffins

Moist & chocolatey with NO zucchini taste!
Packed with protein from Greek yogurt & eggs.
Toddler & kid-approved – even picky eaters love them!
Perfect for meal prep – make ahead and freeze.

Try them out and let me know how they turn out for you! 🍫💛

Tips for the Fitness mom

✔ Add more yogurt and/or some cottage cheese

✔ Dark chocolate chips

✔ Add spinach to your Zucchini and blend it for a smooth texture

Looking for more healthy, protein-packed snacks for busy days? Try my Energy balls perfect for your picky toddler HERE


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *