These Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars are a tasty treat that combines sweet caramel with the goodness of zucchini. With crunchy pecans mixed in, they’re a delight!
Who knew veggies could make such a heavenly dessert? I love sneaking a piece after dinner, and they disappear fast once the family gets a whiff of that caramel! 😄
Making these bars is pretty easy. Just mix the ingredients, bake them, and drizzle with creamy caramel. They’re perfect for sharing or just enjoying by yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture without overpowering flavor. You can swap it for grated apples or carrots if zucchini isn’t available or if you want to switch things up!
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the bars. If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend; the texture may change slightly, but it will still be tasty.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. If you’re a fan of different nuts, swap them for walnuts or almonds! You can also leave them out if there are allergy concerns.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for controlling the sweetness. You could use coconut oil or margarine as a dairy-free substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Brown Sugar: For that rich, caramel-like flavor. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar or use coconut sugar as a healthier option.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Zucchini?
Preparing zucchini might seem simple, but it’s crucial to get it right for the best texture in your bars. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini with a box grater or food processor.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture. This step prevents the bars from being soggy!
- Measure the zucchini after squeezing for accurate amounts in the recipe.
Taking these steps will ensure your zucchini bars bake beautifully! Trust me, you want them to be soft and delicious, not wet and mushy.
Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bars:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. After baking, make sure to allow the bars to cool completely before frosting. Plan for an additional 20 minutes to prepare the caramel frosting. The total time will be around 1 hour, but the delicious result is well worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Oven & Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier later on.
2. Prepare Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini and make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This will help keep your bars from getting soggy.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Once mixed, set this bowl aside.
4. Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After all the eggs are in, stir in the vanilla extract to combine.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bars tender.
7. Add Zucchini and Pecans:
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool:
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting them. This is a key step to allow the frosting to stick well.
10. Make Caramel Frosting:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and milk, then stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
11. Add Powdered Sugar:
Transfer the caramel mixture to a mixing bowl and whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of milk to get your desired consistency.
12. Frost Bars:
Evenly spread the caramel frosting over the cooled bars, making sure to cover them completely with that luscious caramel goodness!
13. Serve:
Cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy every bite! Be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Enjoy your delicious Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars!
FAQ for Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but ensure it’s completely thawed and well-drained before using. Pat it dry with a towel to remove excess moisture, helping to prevent soggy bars.
How Can I Store Leftover Zucchini Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing!
What Can I Substitute for Eggs in This Recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt per egg. This will keep your bars moist without altering the flavor significantly!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. The flavor will still be delicious!
