Description
A delightful homemade treat that combines the freshness of zucchini with the bright flavor of lemon, topped with a creamy lemon cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
																
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			- 2 cups plain flour
 - 1 tsp baking powder
 - 1/2 tsp salt
 - 1 cup white sugar
 - Zest from 2 lemons
 - 3/4 cup neutral oil (grapeseed, canola, or vegetable)
 - 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
 - 1 tsp vanilla flavoring
 - 2 cups shredded zucchini
 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
 - 3 to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
 - 2 tbsp lemon juice
 - 1 tsp grated lemon zest
 - Small pinch salt
 
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
 - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
 - In another bowl, mix the sugar, lemon zest, and oil until well combined.
 - Add the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla to the sugar mixture and mix well.
 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
 - Fold in the shredded zucchini until evenly distributed.
 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
 - Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
 - While the bars are baking, prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
 - Add the confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt, and mix until creamy and well combined.
 - Once the bars are cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
 - Cut into squares and serve.
 
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the oil with applesauce.
 - Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded zucchini before adding it to the batter.
 - These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
 
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 30 minutes
 - Category: Dessert
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
 - Calories: 250
 - Sugar: 20g
 - Sodium: 150mg
 - Fat: 12g
 - Saturated Fat: 5g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 7g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 35g
 - Fiber: 1g
 - Protein: 3g
 - Cholesterol: 50mg
 
Keywords: Zesty Lemon Zucchini Bars, Zucchini recipe, Zucchini dessert, Lemon Zucchini