Description
Soft, spiced zucchini bars balanced with tangy cream cheese frosting. Moist texture from vegetable oil and shredded zucchini, perfect as a handheld breakfast or snack. Cinnamon and oats create a crumbly, sweet base. Vegetarian-friendly and easy to make.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup vegetable oil (canola or similar)
1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups shredded zucchini (well-squeezed to remove moisture)
For the frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
2.5 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C)
Line a jelly roll pan (18×13 inches) with parchment paper
In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking powder, and ground cinnamon
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined
Fold in well-squeezed zucchini using a spatula
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula
Bake for 18-22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
Cool the bar completely in the pan on a wire rack
For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy
Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy
Spread frosting over the cooled bar using an offset spatula
Cut into 24 bars using unflavored kitchen string for clean edges
Allow frosting to set at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving
Notes
Ensure zucchini is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy texture
Use room-temperature eggs for a smooth batter
Freshly ground cinnamon enhances flavor depth
Line the pan with parchment paper for easy release
Let the base cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Bread recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg