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Carrot Zucchini Bars with Lemon Frosting

Bright, tender bars packed with vegetables and topped with a tangy lemon frosting, perfect for snacktime or dessert.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Produce

  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1 cup grated zucchini Squeeze excess moisture before adding to the batter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Wet ingredients

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Can substitute half with applesauce
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Frosting

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the grated carrots, grated zucchini, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest to make the frosting.
  • Spread the lemon frosting over the cooled bars.
  • Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Can be frozen unfrosted.
Keyword Baking, Carrot Zucchini Bars, Healthy Snack, Lemon Frosting, Vegetable Dessert