These Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars are a treat you won’t want to miss! Soft and chewy with hidden zucchini, they pack in some goodness while being oh-so-tasty.
The caramel on top adds a sweet touch that makes these bars feel extra special. I can’t resist having just one more piece—who can blame me? 😄
Whenever I make these bars, I love serving them warm. The caramel becomes gooey and delightful, perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to myself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star ingredient that adds moisture to the bars without being identifiable. Use freshly grated zucchini. If you can’t find zucchini, shredded carrots work well as a substitute!
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have pecans, you could try walnuts or sunflower seeds for a different yet delicious texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter ensures you can control the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter can easily replace it!
Brown Sugar: This gives a rich flavor to the frosting. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can combine regular sugar with a little molasses for a similar taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Bars Stay Moist?
To keep your zucchini pecan bars moist, the key is not to overbake them. Start checking for doneness at 30 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean, but a few moist crumbs are perfect.
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean cloth. This prevents a soggy bottom.
- When mixing the wet ingredients, make sure to beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. This allows for better texture!
- Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before adding the frosting for a softer finish.
Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bars:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Caramel Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time and 30-35 minutes for baking. After baking, allow the bars to cool for 10 minutes before frosting and then let them cool completely. Overall, expect to spend about 1 hour including cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This will ensure that your spices are evenly distributed throughout the bars.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined. Your mixture should be smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
6. Fold in Zucchini and Pecans
Gently fold in the grated zucchini and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter. This adds moisture and texture to your bars.
7. Bake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the bars bake, you can start making the frosting!
8. Make the Caramel Frosting
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of butter. Once melted, whisk in the brown sugar, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
9. Finish the Frosting
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable.
10. Frost the Bars
Once the bars have cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the caramel frosting evenly over the top. Allow the bars to cool completely, so the frosting sets nicely.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the bars are completely cooled, slice them into squares and enjoy this delicious treat! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Enjoy your luscious Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars!
FAQ for Caramel Frosted Zucchini Pecan Bars
Can I Use Unsweetened Applesauce Instead of Butter?
Yes! You can substitute unsweetened applesauce for half of the butter in the bars to make them a bit lighter. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make these bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture and flavor should remain lovely!
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, place them in the fridge, where they can last up to a week. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I Use Other Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Definitely! If you prefer or have allergies, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture!
