Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or substitute with olive oil for a lighter option)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Carrots and Zucchini: These vegetables provide natural sweetness and moisture to the bars, ensuring they are soft and tender without needing extra butter or fat.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and depth to the flavor profile, making these bars perfect for cooler months or holiday celebrations.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, but you can substitute with coconut sugar or honey for a different flavor or healthier option.
- Nuts and Dried Fruit: These additions are optional but will add a nice crunch or chew to the bars, enhancing the overall texture.
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Grate the carrots and zucchini using a box grater or food processor. After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add the Vegetables: Fold the grated carrots and zucchini into the batter. If desired, add chopped walnuts, pecans, and dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Bake the Bars:
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cut and Serve:
- Cut into Bars: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired size.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 3g