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Spiced Ginger Carrot and Zucchini Bars

Spiced Ginger Carrot and Zucchini Bars for Cozy Moments

Spiced Ginger Carrot and Zucchini Bars are a perfect guilt-free dessert that combines warm spices and hidden vegetables for a delicious treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • 1 cup grated carrots Use finely grated for best texture.
  • 1 cup grated zucchini About 1 medium zucchini is ideal.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Swap half for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
  • 1 cup rolled oats Use quick oats if desired.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Ensure it is fresh for best results.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Ensure it is fresh for best results.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon Adjust amounts for personal preference.
  • 1 tsp ground ginger Adjust amounts for personal preference.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Important for balancing sweetness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Can reduce by a quarter for less sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Can reduce by a quarter for less sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs Ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Melted coconut oil can also be used.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Use pure vanilla extract for best results.
For the Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese Dairy-free alternative can be used.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Coconut oil can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Sift before using for best results.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed is preferred.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest Freshly grated is preferred.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots and zucchini.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and zucchini.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  8. Beat together cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl, then gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
  9. Once cooled, spread the frosting over the bars, cut into squares, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for fluffier texture. Avoid overmixing to maintain the bars' lightness. Store in an airtight container.

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