Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Why Make This Recipe

Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of carrots and zucchini with a zesty lemon frosting. These bars are not only delicious but also a healthy option for dessert lovers. They are moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a sweet snack at home. Plus, they are easy to make, making them a great project for novice bakers and an enjoyable activity for more experienced cooks alike.

How to Make Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Ingredients

• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated carrots, grated zucchini, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until fully blended.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
8. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix until well combined.
9. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars. Slice into squares and serve.

How to Serve Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Serve these bars at room temperature or chilled. They can be enjoyed as a sweet snack, dessert, or even at breakfast with coffee or tea. For added flair, garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of nuts on top.

How to Store Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars without frosting and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw and frost before serving.

Tips to Make Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

• Grate the zucchini and carrots finely for a smoother texture in the bars.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the frosting to enhance the lemon flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars light and fluffy.
• Add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture if desired.

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option or try a cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen grated zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen grated zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the batter.

Can I make these bars vegan?
You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-Based cream cheese for the frosting.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If there is moist batter on the toothpick, they need more time in the oven.

Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Delightful bars that combine carrot and zucchini, topped with zesty lemon frosting; a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the bars

• 1 cup grated carrots Finely grated for better texture
• 1 cup grated zucchini Finely grated and drained of excess moisture
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs Can use flax eggs for a vegan option
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon For enhanced flavor in the batter

For the frosting

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened Can substitute with plant-based cream cheese for vegan option
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh juice recommended
• Zest of 1 lemon Enhances flavor of the frosting

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated carrots, grated zucchini, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until fully blended.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Baking

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Frosting

1. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest; mix until well combined.
3. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

For added flair, garnish with extra lemon zest or a sprinkle of nuts on top. Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.