Zucchini Cookie Sandwiches

When it comes to baking, zucchini might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. However, this versatile vegetable has gained popularity in recent years, especially among health-conscious bakers. Zucchini is not just for savory dishes; it serves as an innovative and nutritious addition to desserts, turning traditional recipes on their heads. The concept of using vegetables like zucchini in sweet treats opens up a world of culinary possibilities, allowing bakers to enjoy indulgent flavors without the guilt.

Discover the joy of baking with zucchini in this delicious recipe for zucchini cookie sandwiches! These unique treats feature soft, chewy cookies filled with a creamy frosting, balancing flavors and textures beautifully. Packed with moisture and subtle sweetness from the zucchini, they're perfect for family gatherings or afternoon snacks. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create healthier desserts that everyone will love. Embrace your creativity and enjoy this indulgent yet nutritious twist on traditional cookies!

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Ingredients

1 medium zucchini, finely grated and excess moisture squeezed out

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup brown sugar, tightly packed

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the frosting)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare Zucchini: Using either a box grater or a food processor, grate the zucchini. Once grated, place it in a clean kitchen towel or several paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy cookies.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture appears light and fluffy—generally about 3-5 minutes.

Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until everything is smoothly blended.

Combine Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the prepared zucchini and chocolate chips or raisins, if using.

Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop evenly spaced mounds of dough onto the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.

Cool Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: While the cookies cool, make the filling by beating together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Assemble Sandwiches: When the cookies have cooled, take one cookie and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling on the flat side. Top with another cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich. Continue this process with the remaining cookies.

Serve and Enjoy: Treat yourself and others to these delightful zucchini cookie sandwiches, serving them as a sweet indulgence or a perfect dessert!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 50 min | 12 servings

Presentation Tips: For an added touch, dust the assembled cookie sandwiches with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or place them on a decorative plate with fresh mint leaves for an appealing presentation. Enjoy!