Description
A delightful and wholesome dessert that combines carrots and zucchini in fluffy bars topped with a zesty citrus cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup shredded carrots (Freshly shredded for best results.)
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (Lightly squeezed to remove excess moisture.)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (Can be substituted with gluten free flour.)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt (Enhances flavors.)
- 2 large eggs (Bind ingredients together.)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (Keeps the bars moist.)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (Can reduce for less sweetness.)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Citrus Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese (Full fat for the best texture.)
- 1/4 cup butter (Softened to room temperature.)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (Adjust sweetness to taste.)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (Can substitute with orange zest.)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (Adds a bright flavor.)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt (Enhances flavors.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another larger bowl, whisk the eggs, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla until glossy.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture and stir until just combined, do not overmix.
- Fold in the shredded carrots and zucchini.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for about 22-30 minutes, checking at 22 minutes.
- Cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar in batches to avoid mess.
- Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and a tiny pinch of salt.
- Adjust consistency as needed, chill if too soft.
Serving
- Spread frosting over cooled bars. Chill for about 20 minutes for easier slicing.
- Slice into squares and enjoy slightly cold for the best taste.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating nuts or spices like ginger and nutmeg. These bars freeze well and can be stored in an airtight container for 4 to 5 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Cuisine: American