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Carrot zucchini bars with lemon frosting on a wooden table

Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Bright, zesty, and moist, these carrot zucchini bars feature a delightful lemon frosting, making them perfect for potlucks and lunchboxes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 cup grated carrots Freshly grated for optimal sweetness.
  • 1 cup grated zucchini Use medium-sized zucchini and remove excess moisture.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Sifted for light texture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Can reduce by 2 tablespoons for less sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Adds chewiness and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Use neutral oils like canola or sunflower.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 each zest of lemon Use a microplane for fine zest.
For the frosting
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Adjust for brightness.
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk Add as needed for consistency.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the grated carrots, grated zucchini, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Frosting
  1. While the bars bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth.
Finishing
  1. Allow the bars to cool completely before spreading the lemon frosting.
  2. Slice into squares and serve. For cleaner slices, chill briefly before cutting.

Notes

Store frosted bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Warm unfrosted squares before serving.