Frosted Zucchini Spice Bars are a delicious and moist treat, perfect for any occasion, combining the warmth of spices with the freshness of zucchini.
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:12 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini and chopped nuts, if using.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting.