Description
Deliciously moist Zucchini Bars featuring a tender spiced batter loaded with shredded zucchini, topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. These bars make a perfect snack or dessert, combining subtle sweetness with moist texture and a smooth, flavorful topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Batter
- 1 1/3 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 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, drained
Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the pan: Spray an 8-inch square pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine brown sugar, 1/2 cup softened butter, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth and creamy.
- Add dry ingredients and zucchini: Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Then stir in the shredded and well-drained zucchini until evenly incorporated.
- Pour batter into pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared 8-inch square pan.
- Bake the bars: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the bars are fully cooked through.
- Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool entirely in the pan on a wire rack to avoid melting the frosting.
- Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla extract and gradually mix in powdered sugar until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Frost the bars: Once the bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve: Cut into 9 equal bars and serve. Store any leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the zucchini is well drained to prevent the batter from becoming too wet.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Store frosted bars in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
