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Moist Zucchini Bars with Caramel Frosting

Delightful and moist zucchini bars topped with rich caramel frosting, perfect for a sweet treat that incorporates veggies.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 16 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Bars
  • 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Caramel Frosting
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  4. In another bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Then, fold in the grated zucchini and optional nuts.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting
  1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil.
  3. Remove from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Allow the zucchini bars to cool completely before frosting them with the caramel sauce.
  2. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Always squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini to ensure that your bars hold their shape. Consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute. Trust your oven—bake just until a toothpick comes out clean! Feel free to add chocolate chips or different nuts for a unique twist. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.