Orange-Zucchini Squares(Diabetic)
Delightful orange-zucchini squares offer a moist, flavorful treat with a hint of citrus and spice, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert for those managing blood sugar.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain any juice from the frozen zucchini if necessary.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine NutraSweet, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder.
- Add chopped nuts, grated zucchini, egg whites, thawed orange juice concentrate, and cooking oil to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan.
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you prefer, you can substitute the NutraSweet with another sugar alternative suitable for baking. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well as nut options, but you can also omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Make sure to drain the zucchini thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These squares can be served as a delightful snack or a light dessert. Pair them with a dollop of low-fat yogurt or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added flavor. They also complement a cup of herbal tea beautifully. For a fun twist, serve alongside a slice of 'Good For You' Pineapple Sponge Pie for a healthier dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 squares in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy them cold. They also make a great addition to a lunchbox or snack option on the go.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange-Zucchini Squares(Diabetic) contains roughly 199 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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 regular flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for regular flour to increase the fiber content. Keep in mind that the texture may be denser, so consider adding a tablespoon of additional liquid to the batter if needed.
Is it possible to make these squares vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg whites with a flaxseed meal mixture; use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg white. This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the recipe vegan.
Can I freeze the Orange-Zucchini Squares?
Yes, these squares freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).