This morning was cool and rainy which means I can turn on the oven without cooking my family in the process. Living in an older home with only ceiling fans and a portable air conditioning unit, on hot days, the oven is not an option.
With all the heat we have been having, my zucchini plant has been mass producing. As you can only gift so many zucchinis to friends, I needed to use some up.
Today's harvest
Last night's rain really helped plump this one up!
For my math friends, a non-standard unit of measurement -my son's forearm.
Truth be told, I love baking. It's my thing. I have fond memories of baking with my grandmother in the same kitchen I now bake in. I even use her mixing bowl and juicer; they help me feel connected to her. But I digress...back to baking!
When you have way too many zucchinis in the fridge and more on the vine, you bake. I always look for recipes that use up a lot of zucchini, freeze well, and taste amazing! Here are two of my favs: Lemon Raspberry Zucchini Loaf and Chocolate Zucchini Brownies.
I love lemon and raspberry together. Living in the berry capital of Canada, having access to fresh berries is a treat.
I use the recipe from "I am a Honey Bee". It's so easy and so good. You will want to double this recipe as it will disappear fast.
When making this recipe, I add in a teaspoon of lemon extract and some lemon zest to make it extra lemony. I also recommend lemon zest in the glaze If you don't have fresh berries, use frozen. Just add a bit of extra baking time.
Yes, there is a slice from one loaf gone already! This recipe uses 1 cup of grated zucchini per loaf.
If you really want to use a lot of zucchini up, try this Chocolate Zucchini Brownies recipe from Amanda Rettka (https://iambaker.net/zucchini-brownies/). It uses 3 cups of zucchini, is super moist, and very chocolatey.
The recipe uses no eggs or dairy so is friendly for those who have allergies. The process is a little unconventional (hand fold in the zucchini, what?!) But it works. Be prepared for messy hands and unreal smells in your kitchen.
Did I mention the process is a little unconventional? Believe me, it's worth it!
Serve with ice cream and fresh berries or eat it plain. However you slice it up, it's chocolate heaven!
There is nothing like the delicious smells that come from the oven. Talk about a joy moment! Here's hoping you find yours today!
-The Joyful Gardner
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