Veggie Baking Goodness: Zucchini Bars

There is something funny about zucchini being the star ingredient of a baked good, no?  Growing up in an evironment where our garden was bigger than most city back yards we ate a lot of fresh veggies and I really didn't question it that zucchini was in a baked dessert, it tasted good and that was enough.  Just recently I discovered that zucchini botanically is an immature fruit... so no wonder its versatility!

Zucchini Bars are one of those family favorites from childhood that I find myself needing to make every once in a while.  I used to bake a lot when I was growing up as I enjoyed the methodical nature of making something with just myself in the kitchen but how everyone's eyes would light up a little when saw a fresh baked treat.  I still love that.

Zucchini Bars

From: My family's recipe box

2 cups brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp baking soda
2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup walnuts (optional)
3 tsp vanilla

Cream the brown sugar, eggs, oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. 

Whisk together the salt, flour, baking powder, and soda; mix in with the egg mixture.

Mix in the vanilla, zucchini, and nuts.

Bake in a jelly roll pan (10" x 15") at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

Frosting:
1/4 cup butter
2 tsp vanilla
2 cups powedered sugar
8 oz cream cheese

Beat well & spread on cooled bars.

Enjoy!

 - Tara