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Simple Zucchini Bars

Simple Zucchini Bars That Will Make You Rethink Dessert

These Simple Zucchini Bars are a delightful dessert that incorporates zucchini, making dessert guilt-free and tasty.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 0.5 cups Vegetable Oil Can be substituted with melted coconut oil.
  • 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar Can be replaced with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
  • 0.5 cups Brown Sugar Can be substituted with additional granulated sugar if needed.
  • 3 pieces Eggs Use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Keep as is for optimal flavor.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Whole wheat flour can be used for a denser version.
  • 1 cups Old-Fashioned Oats Swap for gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure it is fresh for the best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Retain as is to balance sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon Substitute with nutmeg for a different profile.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Grate without peeling for extra color and nutrients.
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
  • 0.25 cups Unsalted Butter Substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan option.
  • 3 cups Powdered Sugar Adjust amount to achieve desired sweetness.

Equipment

  • Jelly roll pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • Electric Mixer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a jelly roll pan measuring 10.5 x 15.5 inches.
  2. In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  3. Add all-purpose flour, oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Fold gently until just combined.
  4. Fold in the grated zucchini until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes.
  7. Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
  8. Once cooled, frost the bars with cream cheese frosting and cut into squares or rectangles for serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, squeeze excess liquid from the grated zucchini before adding. Store cut bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

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