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Cozy Brown Butter Zucchini Bars Recipe with Easy Cream Cheese Frosting

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These brown butter zucchini bars feature a nutty, toasty flavor with moist zucchini pockets and a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a cozy treat that’s not too sweet.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups shredded zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup unsalted butter. Cook, swirling occasionally, until deep golden brown and nutty smelling, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly (about 5 minutes).
  2. Prepare the Zucchini: Shred 2 cups zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine browned butter and 2 cups granulated sugar. Whisk until combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  5. Bring Batter Together: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Fold in shredded zucchini and nuts if using.
  6. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly. Pour batter evenly and smooth the top.
  7. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool Completely: Let bars cool in pan on wire rack for at least 20 minutes before frosting.
  9. Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.
  10. Frost the Bars: Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Brown the butter carefully to avoid burning; it should smell nutty and be golden with brown flecks. Squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to prevent soggy bars. Use room temperature ingredients for frosting to avoid lumps. Frost bars only after they have completely cooled. Frosting can be chilled for 15 minutes if too soft. Baking time may vary depending on oven and pan size.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, zucchini bars, cream cheese frosting, easy dessert, late night snack, cozy dessert, zucchini recipe

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/cozy-brown-butter-zucchini-bars-recipe-with-easy-cream-cheese-frosting/