Introduction
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure with these Lemon Zucchini Bars! Picture this: moist, tender bars bursting with the bright, zesty essence of lemon and the subtle sweetness of fresh zucchini. These scrumptious treats make for perfect snacks or dessert, and they are a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies in a delicious way. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging in a cozy afternoon at home, these bars will surely become a new favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well mixed and the sugars are slightly dissolved.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until well blended.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the zucchini mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface.
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top has a lovely golden hue.
- While the bars are baking, prepare your glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and silky.
- Once the bars are done baking, allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, drizzle the luscious lemon glaze over the top of the bars. Cut into squares and serve!
Notes or Tips
For the best results, use fresh zucchini and ensure it’s well grated. If you have a food processor, it can make quick work of grating! Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice in the glaze according to your taste preference. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less lemon juice.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes a simple blending method for combining wet and dry ingredients, which allows for a wonderfully moist texture. Baking at the right temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden brown finish. Keep an eye on your bars as they bake, since oven temperatures can vary slightly.
FAQ
Can I substitute the zucchini?
Yes! If you’re looking for a change, mashed bananas or applesauce can work as substitutes for zucchini, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile of the bars.
How should I store the leftovers?
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. They also freeze well; just wrap them tightly and they’ll last for about a month in the freezer!
Conclusion
These Lemon Zucchini Bars are not just a delicious treat; they’re a joyful way to embrace the bright flavors of lemon while enjoying the delightful texture of zucchini. Whether you bake them for a family gathering or just to brighten up your afternoon, I hope these bars bring as much joy to your home as they do to mine. Happy baking!