Description
These delicious Zucchini Bars combine the moistness of shredded zucchini with a sweet cinnamon-infused batter, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these bars are easy to prepare and bake to a golden perfection.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 ⅓ cups brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups shredded zucchini, well drained
For the Frosting
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare zucchini: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grate the zucchini finely and drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, ensuring the bars bake properly.
- Prepare the baking pan: Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal.
- Mix base ingredients: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the brown sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth and fluffy.
- Add dry ingredients and zucchini: Stir in flour, baking soda, and cinnamon until just combined. Fold in the drained shredded zucchini evenly through the batter.
- Bake the bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool completely: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature before applying frosting, preventing it from melting.
- Prepare the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Gradually add in powdered sugar and whip until the frosting is creamy and fluffy.
- Frost and serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Slice into 9 squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure to drain zucchini well to avoid soggy bars.
- The batter may be thick due to zucchini moisture; spreading evenly helps baking uniformly.
- For a lighter variation, reduce brown sugar slightly or substitute with coconut sugar.
- Store leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Allow frosting to come to room temperature before spreading if refrigerated to avoid cracking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
