Lemon Zucchini Bars

✨ Why These Lemon Zucchini Bars Are a Must-Bake

When life gives you lemons and too many zucchinis, make these soft, citrus-packed Lemon Zucchini Bars. They’re the perfect blend of fresh flavor and subtle sweetness, with a delightfully moist crumb thanks to grated zucchini.

Unlike traditional lemon bars with a shortbread base and custard top, these are more like a fluffy, snackable lemon cake in bar form—easy to slice, stack, and serve. They’re vegetarian, alcohol-free, and kid-approved, making them ideal for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings.

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🥒🍋 What Makes Lemon Zucchini Bars Special?

• Zucchini adds moisture, nutrients, and fiber without changing the flavor.

• Lemon zest and juice give a bright, natural citrus pop.

• No complicated layers—just one bowl, one pan, and minimal prep.

• Topped with a sweet lemon glaze that enhances every bite.

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📋 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bars:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (can sub half with whole wheat flour)

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/3 cup neutral oil (such as avocado or vegetable oil)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 2 lemons

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 cup finely grated zucchini (no need to peel)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

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🧁 How to Make Lemon Zucchini Bars

🔥 Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

🥄 Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Sugar

• Honey or maple syrup

• Oil

• Eggs

• Vanilla

• Lemon zest

• Lemon juice

🥒 Step 3: Fold in the Zucchini

Stir in the grated zucchini. No need to squeeze out the moisture unless your zucchini is excessively wet.

🌾 Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:

• Flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.

🍋 Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

❄️ Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before glazing. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars and top with fresh lemon zest.

✅ Tips for Success

Use Fine Zucchini Shreds

Finely grate your zucchini so it melts into the batter. Coarsely shredded zucchini can cause uneven texture.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Once the flour is added, stir gently to keep the bars soft and fluffy.

Let Them Cool Fully Before Glazing

If you glaze while warm, the glaze will soak in rather than stay on top.

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🌀 Flavor Variations and Add-Ons

• Add poppy seeds for a lemon poppy seed twist.

• Use coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.

• Add blueberries for lemon-zucchini-blueberry bars.

• Top with crushed pistachios for added crunch and color.

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📦 How to Store Lemon Zucchini Bars

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: Store up to 1 week. Let come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

• Freezer: Wrap individual bars and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temp for a few hours.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I taste the zucchini?

Not at all! Zucchini has a neutral flavor and simply adds moisture and a soft crumb.

Q2: Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No. The skin is thin and adds a subtle speckled color. Just wash thoroughly before grating.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just make sure your glaze doesn’t include milk or butter.

Q4: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for its bright flavor, but in a pinch, bottled will work. Add a little extra zest to boost the citrus.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time by adding 5–10 minutes and test with a toothpick.

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🧁 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with iced herbal tea or lemonade on a warm day.

• Pair with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

• Add edible flowers or mint for a fancy presentation at parties.

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🌿 Final Thoughts

These lemon zucchini bars are the sunny-day dessert you didn’t know you needed. Easy to make, naturally moist, and full of fresh lemon flavor, they’re ideal for those who want a sweet treat without heaviness. They’re also free from alcohol, bacon, or any restricted ingredients, making them perfect for a wide range of diets.

Make a batch, glaze generously, and enjoy a slice of citrus-sweet joy—whether it’s for brunch, dessert, or a wholesome afternoon snack.