Maple Zucchini Squares
Sweet zucchini squares with a hint of maple and cinnamon, featuring raisins and nuts for added texture, perfect as a wholesome snack or dessert for all occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add oil and maple flavor; mix well.
- Stir in sugar and brown sugar until combined.
- Fold in grated zucchini.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in raisins and chopped nuts.
- Pour batter into an 11 x 15 x 2-inch baking pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a more pronounced maple flavor, consider using real maple syrup instead of maple flavor. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth. Ensure your zucchini is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These squares make a delightful breakfast or snack, perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. They also complement a light meal, such as a salad like the Marvelous Make-Ahead Salad. For an indulgent treat, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Maple Zucchini Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place squares in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Zucchini Squares contains roughly 1084 calories, with 2g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose flour for added nutrition. The texture may be denser, but it will still yield delicious squares. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed to maintain the right batter consistency.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, consider using dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Nuts can also be omitted or replaced with seeds for a nut-free version.
How can I make these squares more moist?
To enhance the moisture of your Maple Zucchini Squares, ensure your zucchini is finely grated and well-drained before adding it to the batter. You can also add a splash of milk or yogurt to the wet ingredients if the batter seems too thick.
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).