Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the perfect fusion of wholesome sweetness and zesty indulgence with these Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. Packed with moist grated carrots and zucchini, this dessert balances earthy flavors with a hint of cinnamon spice in every bite. Topped with a luscious, tangy lemon cream cheese frosting made with fresh lemon juice and zest, these bars are as refreshing as they are satisfying. Quick to prepare in just under an hour, this recipe is a delightful treat for spring gatherings, brunches, or a simple family dessert. Ideal for sneaking in veggies while pleasing everyone’s sweet tooth, these bars are sure to become a household favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup light brown sugar
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 units large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
Stir in the grated carrots and zucchini into the wet mixture until evenly distributed.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, mixing until the frosting is smooth and tangy.
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the lemon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Cut the frosted bars into 12 squares and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4084 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 204.8 g | 263% | |
| Saturated Fat | 72.7 g | 364% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 67.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 627 mg | 209% | |
| Sodium | 2312 mg | 101% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 548.5 g | 199% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.9 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 392.3 g | ||
| Protein | 42.8 g | 86% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.7 mcg | 14% | |
| Calcium | 351 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 13.1 mg | 73% | |
| Potassium | 1449 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
