Orange Zucchini Squares
Sweet and zesty orange zucchini squares combine moist zucchini with citrus flavor, perfect for a light snack or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy fruity baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Stir in chopped nuts, if desired, and grated zucchini.
- In another bowl, beat egg whites lightly. Add orange juice concentrate and oil.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Add orange peel to the batter.
- Spoon the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool and then frost or sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider substituting half of the oil with applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you're short on orange juice concentrate, fresh orange juice can work, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess liquid. Chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor, but if nuts aren't your preference, feel free to omit them entirely. For a twist, add some vanilla extract for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these squares warm or at room temperature, and they pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. They make a great addition to brunch alongside dishes like Easy Cheese Coffee Cake or Applesauce Spice Muffins. For a zesty touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Orange Zucchini Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Zucchini Squares contains roughly 359 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% 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 eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can substitute the two egg whites with one whole egg. This will add more richness and moisture to the zucchini squares. Just be mindful that the texture may be slightly denser, but they will still bake well.
How can I make these squares more nutritious?
To increase the nutritional value, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. Additionally, incorporating flaxseed meal or chia seeds can add fiber and healthy fats without altering the taste significantly.
Can I freeze these Orange Zucchini Squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
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).