Amazing Secret in 1 Delicious Lemon Zucchini Bars with Glaze Recipe
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.
- Author: Grace
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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 2–3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Glaze
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top so it bakes uniformly.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Glaze the Bars: Once the bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, adding an elegant finish.
- 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