Why Make This Recipe
Mouthwatering Lemon Zucchini Bars are a delightful treat that combines the freshness of lemon with the moistness of zucchini. They are perfect for a snack, dessert, or even a light breakfast. This recipe is simple to follow and will impress family and friends with its vibrant flavor and texture.
How to Make Mouthwatering Lemon Zucchini Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- 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 to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, dust with powdered sugar if desired and cut into squares to serve.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Lemon Zucchini Bars
These bars are best served at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, or dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. They also pair nicely with a cup of tea or coffee, making them great for an afternoon treat.
How to Store Mouthwatering Lemon Zucchini Bars
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing.
Tips to Make Mouthwatering Lemon Zucchini Bars
- Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini to avoid a soggy texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined for fluffy bars.
- For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
Variation
You can customize these bars by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. You can also swap out lemon for other citrus fruits, such as orange or lime, to create a different flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Just thaw it and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the batter.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
What can I do if I don’t have lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use apple cider vinegar or milk mixed with a little lemon zest as an alternative, but the flavor will differ.