Frosted Zucchini Bars

Frosted Zucchini Bars are the ultimate comfort treat with a healthy twist. These soft, spiced bars are packed with moisture from fresh zucchini, balanced with warming spices, and topped with a thick layer of luscious vanilla or cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re serving these at a family gathering, holiday brunch, or just sneaking a square for yourself with a cup of tea, they’ll quickly become a seasonal favorite—or even a year-round go-to.

Don’t let the zucchini fool you—these bars are a true dessert. Think carrot cake’s green cousin, only easier to make and just as satisfying.

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🥒 Why You’ll Love These Frosted Zucchini Bars

• Soft and moist with a tender crumb from fresh zucchini

• Spiced just right with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla

• Frosted to perfection with a thick, creamy topping

• A great way to use up garden zucchini

• No alcohol, pork, or bacon—just wholesome ingredients

• Freezer-friendly and ideal for potlucks, lunchboxes, or dessert trays

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🍰 Frosted Zucchini Bars Ingredients

For the Zucchini Bars:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (squeezed dry)

For the Frosting (Choose One):

Vanilla Buttercream:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1–2 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based)

OR Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup butter, softened

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Frosted Zucchini Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Cinnamon

• Nutmeg

Set aside.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

• Eggs

• Oil

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth, then fold in the grated zucchini.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread evenly and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

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🧁 Make the Frosting

For Vanilla Buttercream:

Cream the butter, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Beat until light and fluffy.

For Cream Cheese Frosting:

Beat together cream cheese and butter. Add vanilla and powdered sugar and mix until smooth and creamy.

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🍴 Frost and Slice

Once bars are completely cooled, spread your frosting of choice generously over the top. For a classic finish, dust with cinnamon or nutmeg. Cut into squares and serve.

🧊 How to Store and Freeze

Store:

• In the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container

• Serve cold or bring to room temperature for a softer texture

Freeze:

• Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months, tightly wrapped

• Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving

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✅ Tips for Perfect Zucchini Bars

💡 Squeeze Out the Zucchini

Place grated zucchini in a clean towel or cheesecloth and wring out excess moisture. This keeps the bars from becoming soggy.

💡 Don’t Overmix

Mix the batter just until combined to ensure soft, tender bars.

💡 Let Bars Cool Completely

Applying frosting to warm bars can cause it to melt or slide. Cool fully for best results.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No. The skin is soft and blends easily into the batter. Plus, it adds fiber and color.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may be slightly different but still tasty.

Is there a vegan version?

Yes. Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water), use dairy-free butter and cream cheese, and opt for plant-based milk in the frosting.

Can I use another sweetener?

You can substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar or try maple syrup. Just note that liquid sweeteners may affect the texture slightly.

What’s the best frosting choice?

Both are excellent! Cream cheese frosting adds tang, while vanilla buttercream keeps things classic and sweet.

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🌿 Final Thoughts

Frosted Zucchini Bars bring together comfort, nostalgia, and nutrition in one delicious square. With a moist, spiced base and your choice of luscious frosting, they’re a fun way to bake with vegetables while still delivering on flavor.

Whether you’re working through a bumper zucchini harvest or simply want a cozy dessert to share, this recipe is easy, customizable, and sure to become a household favorite.