Indulge your senses with this delightful treat that unites the earthy goodness of zucchini and the sweet aroma of cinnamon in a singularly delicious creation. These zucchini bars, topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting, are a perfect fusion of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for more. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe effortlessly combines wholesome ingredients with scrumptious satisfaction.
Growing up, my grandmother always knew how to make the best of seasonal produce. One summer, overwhelmed by an overabundance of zucchini in our garden, she decided to get creative. Rather than sticking to savory dishes, she surprised us all with these incredible cinnamon-frosted zucchini bars. It quickly became a family favorite, especially during our backyard summer parties. To this day, whenever the warm scent of cinnamon fills my kitchen, it takes me right back to those joyful summer moments spent with family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also remarkably practical. The moistness of the zucchini keeps the bars soft, while the cinnamon frosting adds a perfect sweet touch without overwhelming the natural flavors. Additionally, this recipe is a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet in a fun and unexpected way. Whether you need a dessert for a family gathering or a shareable treat for a party, these bars are sure to win hearts.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, choose fresh, medium-sized zucchinis. You can find zucchinis at your local farmer’s market or grocery store. If zucchinis are unavailable, yellow squash serves as a handy alternative. Consider using unsalted butter to have complete control over the saltiness of your bars. Lastly, opt for organic cinnamon if possible, as it enhances the depth of flavor in the frosting.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures the bars will come out easily after baking.
Step 2
Grate the zucchinis and gently press out any excess moisture using a kitchen towel. You’ll need approximately 2 cups of grated zucchini for this recipe.
Step 3
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well before setting aside.
Step 4
In another bowl, beat together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by the grated zucchini, until well combined.
Step 5
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before spreading the cinnamon frosting evenly over the top.
Storage Options
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, these bars can be frozen. Simply wrap them individually with plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and if desired, gently warm the bars in a preheated oven before serving to regain freshness.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary needs, consider substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To add a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans onto the frosting. If you prefer a lighter frosting, swap the Cream Cheese Frosting for a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
These zucchini bars are perfect for a summertime picnic or as a delightful dessert at a weekend brunch. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for an extra indulgent treat, or enjoy them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture, as it can otherwise affect the texture of the bars.
What if my zucchini bars are too dense? If your bars turn out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to gently fold the ingredients together just until combined to maintain a light and airy texture.
How do I know when the bars are fully baked? The bars are ready when they’re golden brown and a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick is sticky or wet, return the dish to the oven for a few more minutes.
Cinnamon Frosted Zucchini Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded zucchini excess moisture removed
- 0.75 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir in the shredded zucchini, vegetable oil, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before frosting with desired cinnamon frosting.
