Lightened Zucchini Bars
Discover the perfect balance of wholesome and indulgent with these Lightened Zucchini Bars! Packed with the natural moisture of shredded zucchini and sweetened with a touch of applesauce, these bars are a guilt-free treat that's both fluffy and flavorful. A fragrant blend of cinnamon and vanilla adds warmth to every bite, while a luscious drizzle of reduced-fat cream cheese glaze elevates them to irresistible. Ready in just 40 minutes, these easy zucchini bars are ideal for a light dessert, snack, or even a delightful addition to your brunch table. With simple, budget-friendly ingredients and a recipe designed to lighten up traditional zucchini desserts, this is a must-try treat for anyone who craves healthy indulgence!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups (shredded) Zucchini
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.75 cups Granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups Unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 1.5 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 4 ounces (softened) Cream cheese (reduced-fat)
- 0.75 cups Powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon Milk
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until combined.
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
Fold in the shredded zucchini, making sure it is evenly distributed throughout the batter. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to settle the batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon of milk and mix until you achieve a drizzling consistency.
Once the zucchini bars have cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly if desired.
Cut the bars into 12 equal portions and serve. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1200 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.1 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.7 g | 78% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 434 mg | 145% | |
| Sodium | 5344 mg | 232% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 202.0 g | 73% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.1 g | 18% | |
| Total Sugars | 188.6 g | ||
| Protein | 24.5 g | 49% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.2 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 273 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 3.6 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 1094 mg | 23% | |
*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.
