These delightful zucchini cookies are a nostalgic treat from classic American kitchens, blending garden freshness with homestyle comfort. The recipe combines shredded zucchini with brown sugar, chocolate chips, and nuts for a soft, chewy texture that feels both hearty and sweet. Originally popularized in the mid-20th century when home gardeners sought creative ways to use zucchini, this cookie quickly became a staple of bake sales and family gatherings. Its warm vanilla aroma and moist crumb make it a perfect recipe for sharing, reminding us of farmhouse baking traditions and cozy afternoons with homemade desserts.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 24

Total Time 44

Course snacks

Cuisine American

Servings cookies

Calories 105 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup shortening (at room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar (packed )
2 eggs (large )
1½ tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups zucchini (shredded )
1 tsp baking soda
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans recommended)
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

Step 1: Cream Ingredients

Cream together the shortening, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Zucchini and Mix-ins

Stir in shredded zucchini, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Mix flour and baking soda together. Gradually stir into the batter until combined.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Drop dough by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool

Remove from oven and cool cookies on wire racks.
Makes approximately 72 cookies.

Tips

Substitute half the shortening with butter for richer flavor.
Add ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice variation.
Swap chocolate chips for raisins for a classic old-fashioned twist.
Freeze extra dough for up to 3 months for quick baking later.
Use whole wheat flour for added fiber and heartier texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 105kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 1.4gFat: 5.4gSaturated Fat: 1.8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.4gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 45mgPotassium: 45mgFiber: 0.6gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.4mg

Keyword chocolate chips, comfort food, cookies, easy dessert, garden fresh, homemade, vintage baking, zucchini

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