If you are looking for a moist, flavorful, and delightfully sweet treat that sneaks in some veggies without anyone noticing, these Simple Zucchini Bars are exactly what you need. Think tender, spiced cake with a luscious cream cheese frosting topping—each bite bursting with warm cinnamon and the subtle earthiness of fresh zucchini. Perfect for a snack, dessert, or even a cozy coffee break, this recipe manages to be irresistibly delicious while staying surprisingly easy to pull together. I’m thrilled to share this gem with you because it balances wholesome ingredients and rich flavors in the simplest way possible.

Simple Zucchini Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that make these zucchini bars stand out. From the moistening vegetable oil to the fragrant cinnamon, and not forgetting the fresh zucchini that keeps the bars tender and subtle, these ingredients are straightforward, accessible, and essential for success.

1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender without heaviness.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweet balance while providing structure.
1/2 cup light brown sugar: Offers a touch of molasses flavor for warmth and richness.
3 eggs: Bind everything together and add necessary moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a lovely aromatic depth.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bars their sturdy but soft texture.
1/2 cup quick oats: Adds a gentle chew and wholesome texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise just enough for a tender crumb.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spiced flavors.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Elevates the bars with warming spice and wonderful aroma.
2 cups grated zucchini: Keeps the bars moist, tender, and naturally flavorful without overpowering sweetness.
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese: For the luscious, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the bars.
3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the frosting.
2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring: Rounds out the frosting with fragrant notes.

How to Make Simple Zucchini Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan approximately 10.5 by 15.5 inches to keep the bars from sticking. This step ensures your bars will bake evenly and easily release from the pan once they’ve cooled.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated and brown sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This blend starts the flavor base and moisture level that will keep your zucchini bars tender and sweet.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the all-purpose flour, quick oats, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon to the wet mixture. Carefully mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. This gentle mixing ensures your bars stay soft instead of becoming dense or tough.

Step 4: Add the Zucchini and Bake

Fold the grated zucchini into the batter thoughtfully, spreading it evenly without overmixing. Then pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the bars cool completely before moving on.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until wonderfully fluffy. Gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla flavoring, beating until you have a smooth, creamy frosting that is perfectly spreadable. This frosting is the star contrast to the warm, spiced base.

Step 6: Frost the Zucchini Bars

Once your zucchini bars have cooled fully, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire surface. Slice into bars and get ready to enjoy a moist, sweet treat with every bite. The combination of the spiced, tender base and tangy frosting creates pure magic.

How to Serve Simple Zucchini Bars

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm and flavor, sprinkle the top of your frosted zucchini bars with a pinch of cinnamon or some finely chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans. This adds texture and a beautiful finish that makes your Simple Zucchini Bars even more inviting.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, balancing the sweetness and spice perfectly. For a more indulgent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a delightfully creamy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your zucchini bars into fun shapes with cookie cutters for a playful presentation at parties or family gatherings. You can also layer pieces between parchment paper and serve them as snack pack sandwiches, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Simple Zucchini Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They will happily stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen zucchini bars with frosting can last up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen bars, let them thaw completely. For a warm twist, gently microwave a single bar for 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven. Keep in mind the frosting will soften, giving a different but equally delicious texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, you can substitute regular oats but give them a quick pulse in a food processor to break them down slightly, or expect a chewier texture that adds extra heartiness to your Simple Zucchini Bars.

Is it necessary to peel the zucchini?

Peeling the zucchini is optional. Leaving the skin on adds color and nutrients, plus it’s very mild in flavor once baked, so feel free to grate the zucchini whole for simplicity.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This adjustment makes them suitable without compromising taste or texture.

How long do the Simple Zucchini Bars last at room temperature?

Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep the bars refrigerated and only leave them at room temperature for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness and food safety.

Can I omit the cream cheese frosting?

Yes, you can enjoy these zucchini bars without frosting for a lighter option. They are still moist and flavorful on their own, perfect when you want a less sweet snack or breakfast treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about enjoying a homemade treat that feels indulgent yet includes a bit of veggie goodness. These Simple Zucchini Bars deliver that comforting, cozy taste in the easiest way possible. I hope you find as much joy baking and eating them as I do sharing this recipe with you. Go ahead and make a batch—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Simple Zucchini Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 7 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Deliciously moist and flavorful, these simple zucchini bars are baked to perfection and topped with a creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting. Combining grated zucchini, warm cinnamon, and a sweet blend of sugars, these bars make for a perfect dessert or snack that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan measuring 10.5 x 15.5 inches to ensure the bars don’t stick after baking. Set the pan aside for later use.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until they are well blended and smooth to form the base for your zucchini bars.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, quick oats, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon to the wet ingredients. Gently stir the mixture until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bars dense.
Add the Zucchini and Bake: Fold the grated zucchini into the batter evenly. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is fluffy. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla flavoring, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Frost the Zucchini Bars: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into pieces and serve these moist, flavorful zucchini bars.

Notes

Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the grated zucchini if too watery to avoid soggy bars.
You can substitute quick oats with rolled oats if desired, but texture may vary slightly.
For a nutty addition, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking or mixing them in.
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh.
Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American