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In recent years, the culinary world has witnessed an exciting trend: the rise of zucchini in baking. What was once considered a summer garden staple has transformed into a beloved ingredient that adds moisture, nutrition, and a unique flavor to a variety of baked goods. From zucchini bread to muffins, this versatile vegetable has carved out a niche in dessert recipes, and now it’s time to introduce an innovative creation that combines the best of both worlds—the Zesty Zucchini Cookie Pizzas. These delightful treats are not only a unique twist on traditional cookies but also a fun way to sneak some veggies into your dessert, making them appealing to both adults and kids alike.

Zucchini Cookies Pizza

Discover a delicious twist on traditional cookies with Zesty Zucchini Cookie Pizzas! This fun recipe incorporates grated zucchini for added moisture and nutrition, making these treats both indulgent and healthy. With a soft, chewy base, you can customize your cookie pizzas with toppings like chocolate chips, fresh fruits, or cream cheese frosting. Perfect for family gatherings or a fun baking activity with kids, these colorful cookies are sure to be a hit! Enjoy a delightful balance of flavors while sneaking in some veggies!

Ingredients
  

1 cup grated zucchini (excess moisture thoroughly squeezed out)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra sweetness)

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for topping)

Fresh berries or sliced fruit (for decorative topping)

A drizzle of honey or maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cookie pizzas once baked.

    Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini into a bowl. Using a clean kitchen towel, wrap the grated zucchini and twist to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for preventing soggy cookies.

      Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.

        Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.

          Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Beat again until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

            Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini and chocolate chips (if desired) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

              Shape the Cookie Pizzas: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each scoop slightly to form a pizza shape, leaving enough space between each for spreading during baking.

                Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, while the centers may appear slightly underbaked—don’t worry, they will firm up as they cool.

                  Cool the Cookies: After removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                    Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping: While the cookies are cooling, whip the softened cream cheese with a mixer until it’s smooth. Optional: Sweeten it with a tiny bit of powdered sugar or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

                      Assemble the Cookie Pizzas: Once the cookies have cooled down, generously spread a layer of the whipped cream cheese on top of each cookie pizza.

                        Decorate: Top each decorated cookie pizza with an assortment of fresh berries or sliced fruit for a vibrant, refreshing look.

                          Serve: Drizzle your Zucchini Cookie Pizzas with honey or maple syrup if you’d like an added touch of sweetness. Slice and serve these delightful treats for a fun dessert experience!

                            Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12 cookies

                              Presentation Tips:

                                Serve these cookie pizzas on a large platter, garnishing with mint leaves for added freshness. Keep the fruits colorful to make each bite a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds!