Zucchini bars with brown butter frosting

 

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini Bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil or melted butter and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the shredded zucchini and chopped nuts (if using).
5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Make the Brown Butter Frosting:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, continue to cook the butter, stirring frequently, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn the butter.
2. Remove the browned butter from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps.
4. Pour the cooled brown butter into the powdered sugar. Add the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Zucchini Bars:

1. Once the zucchini bars have cooled completely, spread the brown butter frosting evenly over the top.
2. Optionally, sprinkle with additional chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon for garnish.
3. Cut into bars and serve.
4. These zucchini bars with brown butter frosting are moist, flavorful, and perfect for enjoying as a dessert or sweet snack. The addition of zucchini adds moisture and a hint of freshness, while the brown butter frosting adds a rich and nutty flavor. Enjoy!