Zucchini Bars with Glaze

If you’re looking for a treat that’s light, zesty, and effortlessly comforting, these Zucchini Bars with Glaze are your next baking favorite. Made with fresh zucchini and topped with a sweet citrus glaze, they strike the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Whether served at brunch, afternoon tea, or as a summer dessert, these bars are always a hit.

Think banana bread meets lemon drizzle cake—with a veggie-powered twist!

🌿 Why You’ll Love These Glazed Zucchini Bars

• ✅ Light and moist – thanks to fresh zucchini

• 🍋 Bright citrus glaze – perfectly sweet and tangy

• 🧁 Versatile – great for brunch, dessert, or snacking

• 💚 Veggie-packed – sneaky way to add nutrition

• 🌾 No pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol – clean and inclusive

• ❄️ Freezer-friendly – glaze after thawing for best texture

🛒 Ingredients

For the Zucchini Bars:

• 1 cup finely grated zucchini (moisture squeezed out)

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (or sub half with whole wheat flour)

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ⅛ tsp nutmeg (optional)

• 2 large eggs

• ⅓ cup neutral oil (such as avocado or light olive oil)

• ½ cup honey or maple syrup

• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Citrus Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or orange juice for variation)

• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Zucchini Bars with Glaze

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

• Grate zucchini using the fine side of a box grater.

• Wrap in a clean cloth or paper towels and squeeze out excess moisture. You should end up with 1 cup of packed, dry-ish zucchini.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour

• Baking powder & soda

• Salt

• Cinnamon

• Nutmeg (if using)

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Eggs

• Oil

• Honey or maple syrup

• Applesauce or banana

• Vanilla extract

Then stir in the grated zucchini.

Step 5: Combine & Mix

Add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

• Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

🍋 Making the Glaze

Once the bars are completely cool:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice. Start with 2 tbsp juice and add more to reach your desired consistency.

2. Stir in zest if using.

3. Drizzle glaze over the cooled bars with a spoon or pour gently for a glossy finish.

4. Let the glaze set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• With herbal tea or iced green tea

• For brunch with fresh berries and yogurt

• As a picnic treat – refreshing and not too rich

• Drizzle with extra glaze just before serving for shine

❄️ Storage & Freezing

Storing:

• Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze unglazed bars by wrapping tightly and storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

• Thaw at room temperature and add glaze after thawing for best results.

💡 Tips & Variations

Gluten-Free Version:

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend

Refined Sugar-Free Glaze:

• Use powdered coconut sugar blended with lemon juice for a less traditional, more wholesome version

Try Orange Instead:

• Swap lemon juice and zest for orange to create orange-zucchini bars

Add Texture:

• Fold in ¼ cup chopped walnuts, poppy seeds, or dried cranberries

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Yes—just thaw and drain very well before using. Frozen zucchini retains more moisture.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Substitute:

• Eggs with 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water)

• Honey with maple syrup

Why squeeze the zucchini?

Removing excess water helps avoid soggy bars and ensures the perfect tender texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 30–35 minutes.

Can I make this without the glaze?

Definitely. The bars are lightly sweet and moist on their own. The glaze adds brightness but is optional.

✨ Final Thoughts

These Zucchini Bars with Glaze are proof that wholesome baking can be both delicious and elegant. With a subtle spice, soft crumb, and bright citrus finish, they feel indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re baking for guests, meal prepping a snack, or just want a veggie-packed treat that doesn’t taste “healthy,” these bars deliver.

They’re easy to make, easy to love, and even easier to share.