Description
Moist and tender bars made with grated zucchini and applesauce for a wholesome twist. Topped with rich brown butter frosting and crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 cup applesauce
1 1/2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
For frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch by 13-inch baking pans or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs, applesauce, and vanilla; mix well.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in grated zucchini and 1/4 cup chopped pecans. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
For frosting: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread frosting over cooled bars and cut into 24 pieces.
Notes
Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel.
Toast pecans in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before adding to batter or frosting.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Frosted bars may be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg