Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze are a delightful treat that combine the freshness of lemon with the moistness of zucchini. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you need a sweet snack or a dessert to impress your friends and family. These bars are not only tasty but also easy to make, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
How to Make Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sugars, vegetable oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the zucchini mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, make the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Once the bars are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, slice, and serve.
How to Serve Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze
These bars are best served at room temperature. Slice them into squares and drizzle the glaze on top just before serving. They can also be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon snack.
How to Store Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze
To store the bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving if they were refrigerated.
Tips to Make Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze
- Make sure to thoroughly squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini to prevent the bars from being too wet.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe based on your sweetness preference.
Variation
You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Dried fruit like cranberries or raisins can also be mixed into the batter for additional flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Just thaw it and make sure to drain any excess water.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make these bars gluten-free.
3. How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you want a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.