Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars, I was looking for a way to sneak more veggies into my family’s diet without sacrificing flavor. You know those days when you want something sweet yet guilt-free? That’s when these bars come into play. They’re tender, moist, and packed with the goodness of carrots and zucchini. Every bite feels like a treat, and honestly, I can’t resist a good snack. It’s become a tradition in my home to whip these up for an afternoon pick-me-up, especially during the spring when both carrots and zucchini are in season. My kids love helping me make them, and believe me, they don’t even realize they’re getting a healthy dose of vegetables! Each time we bake, the aroma fills the kitchen, and I can see the excitement in their eyes knowing something delicious is coming their way.

These Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars are not just delicious; they’re a fantastic way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your day. They’re naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and maple syrup, making them a healthier option than traditional dessert bars. Plus, they’re versatile! You can enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert. I love serving them with a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top, making them even more tempting. It’s the perfect balance of health and indulgence, and I always find myself going back for seconds. You’ll want to keep this recipe handy!

Ingredients Required for Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating delicious Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars. Each component plays an important role in the final flavor and texture of these treats. Here’s a look at the key players:

• 2 eggs: These help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• ¾ cup coconut sugar or maple sugar: A natural sweetener to enhance flavor without refined sugar.
• ¼ cup coconut oil: Adds richness and helps keep the bars moist.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Additional sweetness that complements the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 cups almond flour: A gluten-free base that gives a nutty flavor.
• ½ cup tapioca starch: Adds chewiness to the bars.
• 2 tablespoons ground flax seed: Provides healthy omega-3 fatty acids and acts as a binding agent.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: A warm spice that adds depth of flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda: For leavening.
• 1 cup shredded carrot: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• ½ cup shredded peeled zucchini: Another vegetable that keeps the bars moist.
• ½ cup raisins: For added sweetness and texture.
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): For the optional frosting.
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup: Sweetener for the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: For the frosting.

Step by Step Guide for Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars

Making Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat in no time.

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Prepare an 8 x 8-inch square baking dish by coating it with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, coconut sugar, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla. Whisk everything together until fully combined, ensuring a smooth mixture.
3. Add the almond flour, tapioca starch, flax seed, baking powder, ginger, and baking soda to the bowl. Mix these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until everything is thoroughly combined. Look for a smooth batter with no lumps.
4. Next, prepare the carrots and zucchini. Place them in cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing the bars from becoming soggy.
5. Fold the carrots, zucchini, and raisins into the batter. Gently combine them until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula to smooth the top, making it even.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the top is puffy and springs back when lightly pressed in the center.
8. Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, add the softened cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk together vigorously until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
10. Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle the frosting over the top. Cut them into slices and serve! Enjoy this healthy treat!

Expert Tips about Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
• Pairing: These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great breakfast option alongside some fresh fruit.
• Frosting options: If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.
• Make ahead: These bars can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or for gatherings.

Best Served With

If you’re wondering how to enjoy your Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars, here are some ideas:

• Breakfast: Enjoy them warm for breakfast with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or bananas.
• Afternoon Snack: They make a fantastic afternoon pick-me-up at work or school.
• Brunch Occasions: Perfect for brunch gatherings, pair with fresh juice or smoothies.
• Picnics: These bars are an excellent choice for a picnic dessert, easy to pack and serve.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. You can also refrigerate them for extended freshness.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars are a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while including nutritious ingredients. Their moist texture and delightful flavor make them a favorite in my home. I encourage you to try making them; they could quickly become a beloved recipe in your kitchen!

Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars

Craving something sweet yet healthy? Try these Healthy Carrot Zucchini Bars. Moist, tender, and packed with wholesome ingredients, they make for an easy weeknight snack or dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 9 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 eggs eggs
• ¾ cup coconut sugar or maple sugar
• ¼ cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups almond flour 200 grams
• ½ cup tapioca starch 60 grams
• 2 tablespoons ground flax seed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup shredded carrot
• ½ cup shredded peeled zucchini
• ½ cup raisins
• 4 ounces cream cheese softened (see note)
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Prepare an 8 x 8-inch square baking dish by coating it with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, coconut sugar, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla. Whisk everything together until fully combined, ensuring a smooth mixture.
3. Add the almond flour, tapioca starch, flax seed, baking powder, ginger, and baking soda to the bowl. Mix these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until everything is thoroughly combined. Look for a smooth batter with no lumps.
4. Next, prepare the carrots and zucchini. Place them in cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing the bars from becoming soggy.
5. Fold the carrots, zucchini, and raisins into the batter. Gently combine them until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula to smooth the top, making it even.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You'll know they’re ready when the top is puffy and springs back when lightly pressed in the center.
8. Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, add the softened cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk together vigorously until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
10. Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle the frosting over the top. Cut them into slices and serve! Enjoy this healthy treat!

Notes

• To make this fully dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese, or use a Vegan Cashew Vanilla Glaze for a frosting instead.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.