CHEFIT: Dark Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Heart health is always trendy and making it a priority is easy with this dark chocolate zucchini bread. This recipe contains delicious dark chocolate that has  known health benefits. The antioxidants in dark chocolate help our blood vessels to relax, making it easier to pump blood throughout our body. This recipe also helps sneak in some vegetables for added fiber, vitamins and minerals. You will never be able to tell this is a bread packed with vegetables. It's perfect for a healthy dessert alternative or for breakfast with your coffee. 

YIELD: 10 SLICES

INGREDIENTS: 

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2/3 cup sugar (brown, granulated, or coconut will work)
• 1 packed cup finely grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips 

PREPARATION: 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

Combine flours, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. 

In a separate bowl, combine sugar, zucchini, greek yogurt, applesauce, and vanilla. Mix well. 

Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Add to a 9x5in greased bread pan. Push chocolate chips into the top of the bread. Bake for 35-40 minutes until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. 

Let sit for 10 minutes in the bread pan before moving to a cooling rack.