Carrot Zucchini Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting
Sweet and moist carrot zucchini bars with creamy frosting, combining fresh vegetables and raisins for a wholesome treat suitable for all ages and occasions.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 cup butter at room temperature ⓘ
- 1 egg ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vanilla ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups flour ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 2/3 cup grated carrots ⓘ
- 2/3 cup grated zucchini, liquid squeezed out ⓘ
- 1/2 cup raisins ⓘ
- 1 package (3 oz.) cream cheese ⓘ
- Cream Cheese Frosting ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Beat together brown sugar, butter, and cream cheese in a large bowl until fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla; beat well.
- Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
- Stir in grated carrots, grated zucchini (liquid squeezed out), and raisins.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then cool for 10 minutes.
- Invert the cake onto a wire rack and cool completely.
- Frost with cream cheese frosting and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. If you’re out of raisins, chopped nuts or dried cranberries make great substitutes. Ensure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini to maintain the right texture. This recipe can also be adapted for a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
These carrot zucchini bars are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a more substantial dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They can also be a charming addition to a brunch spread alongside dishes like Parsley Potato Salad or other vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, microwave each bar for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars; wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Zucchini Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting contains roughly 534 calories, with 5g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting adds a rich flavor, you can try a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a lighter option. Chocolate or buttercream frosting can also complement the flavors well if you prefer something different.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Just make sure to use the same amount, and if using coconut oil, ensure it's in a softened state for easy mixing.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for the best results. Frosting can also be made ahead; just store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).