Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes

1 . Stage

Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler. Spread pecans onto a baking sheet. Cut butter into small pieces and scatter on top of pecans.

2 . Stage

Broil in the preheated oven until pecans start to turn golden brown and become fragrant, about 5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from oven and allow to cool, about 10 minutes. Transfer pecans to a cutting board and smash or crush into small pieces.

3 . Stage

Turn off broiler and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line 18 cups of a muffin tin with paper liners. Spray inside of liners with cooking spray.

4 . Stage

Combine zucchini, oil, and eggs in a large mixing bowl.

5 . Stage

Mix flour, sugar, toasted pecans, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Add zucchini mixture and stir to combine. Fill muffin tin cups 3/4 full with batter.

6 . Stage

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

7 . Stage

While cupcakes bake, cut softened cream cheese and butter into small pieces and place in a mixing bowl. Add sugar and almond extract. Mix icing using an electric mixer until smooth, about 5 minutes. Store in the refrigerator until use.

8 . Stage

Remove cupcakes from the oven and let cool completely before frosting, about 1 hour.