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A close up shot of a Moist Zucchini Bar with thick caramel frosting on top

Moist Zucchini Bars with Caramel Frosting

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5 from 17 reviews

Description

These classic, comforting bars utilize fresh grated zucchini to ensure a supremely moist crumb, perfectly complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They are finished with a rich, old-fashioned cooked caramel frosting that sets into a smooth, buttery glaze. This recipe is simple to execute and produces a delicious, satisfying dessert that is perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups grated zucchini, lightly blotted
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Caramel Frosting:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Wash and grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Lightly blot the shreds with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring not to squeeze it completely dry. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix using a large spoon or spatula until the flour has just disappeared; be careful not to over-mix.
  5. Gently fold in the grated zucchini. (If desired, fold in any additions like nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.)
  6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly toward the corners.
  7. Bake the bars at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before proceeding to the frosting stage.
  9. To prepare the caramel frosting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  10. Stir in the brown sugar until it is completely melted and smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for exactly one minute.
  11. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the milk. Allow the mixture to cool down for a few minutes.
  12. Whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth. If it is too thick, add a tiny splash more milk.
  13. Pour the warm caramel frosting over the cooled bars and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  14. Allow the frosting to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

To ensure the most tender bar texture, stop mixing the batter as soon as the flour streaks disappear to avoid developing the gluten. If the caramel frosting begins to stiffen while you are spreading it, simply place the saucepan back on a very low heat for a few seconds to loosen its consistency. The bars taste excellent the day after baking, once the flavors have fully melded.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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Find it online: https://cakesavor.com/moist-zucchini-bars-caramel-frosting/