If you are on the hunt for a delightful yet wholesome treat, look no further than this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe. Bursting with juicy strawberries, fresh zucchini, and melty chocolate chips, these muffins combine the best flavors of spring and summer in every bite. The use of white whole wheat flour makes them a bit healthier without sacrificing texture or taste, providing a soft crumb with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these muffins are an absolute crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to bake time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a vital role in making these muffins sing. From the tender zucchini that keeps the muffins moist to the burst of strawberry sweetness, every component balances flavor and texture beautifully.
- 1 cup grated zucchini: Provides moisture and a subtle veggie sweetness, grated before squeezing out excess water.
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour: Adds a nutty flavor and wholesome texture while keeping the muffins tender.
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar: Offers natural sweetness with a slight caramel note, a great alternative to refined sugar.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the muffins rise to a perfect fluffy consistency.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for lightness and to balance acidity.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors to make every bite pop.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Warm spice that complements the strawberries and chocolate beautifully.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness to the batter.
- ⅓ cup avocado oil: Keeps the muffins moist without overpowering the other flavors (can substitute with melted coconut oil or butter).
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic sweetness that ties the ingredients together.
- ¾ cup plain yogurt: Adds tang and moisture, keeping the muffins tender and soft.
- ⅔ cup unsweetened applesauce: Acts as a natural sweetener and adds moisture; mashed ripe banana can work as a substitute.
- 1 cup diced strawberries: Fresh fruit chunks that add juicy bursts of flavor throughout.
- ⅓ cup chocolate chips: The perfect little pockets of melted chocolate that make these muffins irresistibly decadent.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin well or line it with paper liners to make for easy removal later. Preparation at this stage ensures your muffins bake evenly and come out effortlessly.
Step 2: Drain the Zucchini
Place your grated zucchini in the center of a clean dish towel or paper towel. Wrap it up tightly and press to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to keep your muffins from getting soggy while still enjoying that fresh zucchini flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together white whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This dry mix forms the base flavor profile and leavening agents that give the muffins their rise.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg, avocado oil, vanilla extract, plain yogurt, and applesauce until fully combined. These wet ingredients add moisture and richness that contribute to a tender muffin crumb.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour your wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined—remember, over-mixing can make muffins tough. The batter will be thick and hearty, which is exactly how you want it.
Step 6: Fold in the Good Stuff
Carefully fold in your diced strawberries, drained zucchini, and chocolate chips. These add-ins give the muffins their signature flavor and delightful texture. Again, stir gently to keep the batter light.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup all the way to the top for a nice dome. Optional: sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for a luxe finish. Bake for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool, so patience here pays off with perfect texture.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Serve these muffins with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light spread of softened butter for an extra touch of indulgence. Fresh strawberry slices or a drizzle of honey make lovely natural accompaniments that enhance the fruity notes.
Side Dishes
Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or afternoon snack time bliss. A side of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese adds protein and balances the sweetness nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Make a charming brunch platter by arranging these muffins with fresh berries, nuts, and a few herb sprigs like mint or basil for color. They also work wonderfully as part of a picnic spread or packed in lunchboxes for a surprise treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days, making them a convenient, ready-to-eat option throughout the week.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Stored this way, they keep well for up to three months. Perfect for making ahead or saving for a rainy day.
Reheating
To enjoy a warm muffin, simply microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or heat in a toaster oven until warmed through. Reheating brings back that freshly-baked softness and lets the chocolate chips melt slightly again for pure comfort.
FAQs
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of white whole wheat?
Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but the texture might be less hearty and the flavor less nutty. White whole wheat adds a lovely depth and nutrition boost that complements the zucchini and strawberries perfectly.
What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
You can substitute frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding too much moisture. Alternatively, raspberries or blueberries also work nicely for a different fruit twist.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based yogurt and oil alternatives. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious.
How do I prevent the muffins from being too watery?
Draining the zucchini thoroughly is key to preventing soggy muffins. Press as much moisture out as possible before folding it into the batter.
Can I add nuts to this Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans make a wonderful crunchy addition. Add about ½ cup folded in with the strawberries and chocolate chips for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about these Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and your taste buds with joy. They’re easy enough to whip up on a weekday morning but impressive enough to share with friends and family. So, gather those simple ingredients and treat yourself to muffins that taste like a hug in every bite. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these disappear once you share them around!
Print
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these easy and delicious Chocolate Chip Zucchini Strawberry Muffins, baked to perfection in just 22 minutes. Made with white whole wheat flour, fresh grated zucchini, juicy diced strawberries, and a touch of chocolate chips, these muffins offer a wholesome and healthier sweet treat or a nutritious mid-day snack. The combination of coconut sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon adds warm sweetness, while the added yogurt and applesauce ensure a moist, tender crumb.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup grated zucchini (measured before squeezing out moisture)
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup avocado oil (or melted coconut oil or butter)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup plain yogurt
- ⅔ cup unsweetened applesauce (can substitute with ripe mashed banana)
Add-ins
- ⅓ cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking.
- Drain Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in the center of a paper towel or clean dishcloth, wrap it up, and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. Set aside the drained zucchini.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well mixed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, avocado oil, vanilla extract, plain yogurt, and unsweetened applesauce until fully combined.
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix. The batter will be thick.
- Fold in Add-ins: Carefully fold in the diced strawberries, drained zucchini, and chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Fill Muffin Tins: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each to the top. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra sweetness and texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Muffins may seem soft at first but will firm up as they cool. For best results, let them cool completely before serving.
- Store: Once cooled, store the muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Measure zucchini before squeezing out excess moisture to maintain accurate moisture content.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure the muffins stay tender and fluffy.
- Substitute unsweetened applesauce with ripe mashed banana for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure muffins are properly cooled before storing to avoid sogginess.
- Use white whole wheat flour for a healthier option while maintaining a light texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American