Zucchini Spice Squares
Zucchini Spice Squares are moist, flavorful bars packed with shredded zucchini, coconut, and warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy moist, spice-laden baked goods with a hint of nuttiness and coconut texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg; set aside.
- Cream margarine in a large bowl; beat in sugar and brown sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla; stir in flour mixture until smooth.
- Stir in shredded zucchini, coconut, and chopped walnuts; blend well.
- Spread batter in a well-greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely.
- Frost with Cinnamon Icing.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding a pinch of ginger or using different nuts such as pecans instead of walnuts. Ensure that the zucchini is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter, which can impact the texture. This recipe is a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Zucchini Spice Squares warm or at room temperature, topped with a generous layer of Cinnamon Icing. They make a delightful dessert or snack alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them a perfect complement to your favorite *Kinklings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Zucchini Spice 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 individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold as a delicious snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Spice Squares contains roughly 471 calories, with 8g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly. If using a gluten-free option, ensure it contains xanthan gum to help with binding.
Can I freeze Zucchini Spice Squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Is it necessary to add the coconut and walnuts?
While coconut and walnuts add flavor and texture, you can omit them if desired. For a nut-free version, simply leave out the walnuts. You can also swap the coconut for dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a different taste.
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).