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Amazing Secret in 1 Delicious Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze Recipe

4.7 from 223 reviews

Delight in these moist and tangy Lemon Zucchini Bars, a unique treat that blends the freshness of lemon with the subtle earthiness of zucchini. Topped with a smooth, sweet lemon glaze, these bars are perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack that feels both indulgent and light.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 cup grated zucchini, lightly squeezed to remove excess moisture
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 23 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Glaze

  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk or lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to ensure the bars release easily after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the batter.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender texture and proper rise.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
  5. Combine Yogurt and Lemon Juice: In a small bowl, whisk the plain yogurt or sour cream with fresh lemon juice to create a tangy component that will keep the bars moist.
  6. Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients and the yogurt-lemon mixture alternately to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten and to maintain a tender crumb.
  7. Fold in Zucchini and Lemon Zest: Gently fold in the grated zucchini and lemon zest, which add moisture and a fresh citrus punch to the bars.
  8. Pour Batter into Pan: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top so it bakes uniformly.
  9. Bake the Bars: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Proper baking ensures a set center without dryness.
  10. Cool the Bars: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential before glazing to prevent melting.
  11. Prepare the Glaze: While the bars cool, whisk together powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and pourable, creating a sweet and tangy topping.
  12. Glaze the Bars: Once the bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, adding an elegant finish.
  13. Set the Glaze and Serve: Let the glaze set before cutting the bars into squares to ensure clean slices and a polished appearance.

Notes

  • Make sure to lightly squeeze the grated zucchini to remove excess moisture to prevent soggy bars.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor impact.
  • If you prefer a more tangy glaze, substitute milk with lemon juice.
  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before glazing.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute yogurt and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Keywords: lemon zucchini bars, lemon dessert, zucchini dessert bars, lemon glaze, moist lemon bars, easy baking, summer dessert