Name: Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Butter; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Shredded Sweetened Coconut; 3/4 cup Chopped Pecans; 3 cups Finely Shredded Zucchini; 1/2 cup Mini Chocolate Chips; 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Melted Butter; 2 to 3 tablespoons Milk; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

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The first time I made Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut, I was looking for a way to use the abundance of zucchini from my garden. Each summer, those green beauties seem to multiply overnight, and I often find myself wondering what to do with them all. A friend suggested I try making bars that could satisfy both my sweet tooth and my desire to eat healthier. When I pulled those golden, slightly sticky bars out of the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen, luring everyone in. The crunch from the pecans and the sweetness of the coconut blended perfectly with the moist zucchini, creating an irresistible treat that quickly disappeared. Ever since then, these bars have become a summer staple in our home.

They make for the perfect afternoon snack or dessert at barbecues, and I love how they’re a bit different from the usual sweet treats. What’s more, they’re incredibly easy to make, and you can whip them up in no time! Whenever I serve them, I always get asked for the recipe, and I can’t help but smile as I share my secret. So, if you’re wondering how to transform your garden’s bounty into something delicious, let’s dive into making these delightful Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

What We Adore About This Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut

A Unique Twist on Dessert

What makes Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut so special is their unique combination of flavors and textures. The moistness from the zucchini ensures that the bars stay incredibly soft, while the pecans add just the right amount of crunch. Each bite is a delightful mix of chewy and crunchy, which keeps your taste buds guessing.

Healthy Yet Indulgent

These bars allow you to indulge without the guilt. With the natural moisture from the zucchini, there’s less need for excessive sugar and fat. Plus, the addition of coconut provides a rich flavor that feels luxurious, even as you’re enjoying a healthier option.

Perfect for Sharing

When you bring a pan of these to a gathering, you’re bound to impress. Friends and family will be curious about the secret ingredient, and you can proudly share that it’s all about the zucchini. They make excellent potluck desserts, and you’ll likely leave the event with an empty pan and plenty of compliments.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of my favorite things about these bars is how adaptable they are. You can easily swap out the mini chocolate chips for your favorite mix-ins, whether that be dried fruits, nuts, or even different flavorings. This versatility allows you to create your unique version, perfect for any occasion.

A Fun Baking Activity

Making Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut can also be a fun activity to do with kids. They’ll enjoy the mixing, pouring, and of course, the tasting! It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into their diet without them even realizing it. Plus, they can help with the decorating of the bars with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.

Seasonal Embrace

There’s something about baking with fresh summer produce that makes these bars feel even more special. Incorporating seasonal ingredients like freshly shredded zucchini not only enhances the taste but also brings a sense of connection to the culinary cycle of the year. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the bounty of summer.

Main Ingredients for Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut

The ingredients for Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut are simple yet powerful. The star here is definitely the zucchini, which adds moisture and a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of coconut and the crunch of pecans. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance, making each bite a delightful experience.

Butter: 3/4 cup – Provides richness and moisture to the bars, ensuring they remain soft and decadent.
Light Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup – Balances the sweetness and contributes to the bars’ texture.
Eggs: 2 large – Act as a binding agent, helping to keep these bars moist and fluffy.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups – Forms the base of the bars, providing structure.
Baking Powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons – Helps the bars rise, giving them a light texture.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and heightens the flavor profiles.
Shredded Sweetened Coconut: 1 cup – Adds sweetness and a chewy texture, making every bite enjoyable.
Chopped Pecans: 3/4 cup – Introduces a delightful crunch, complementing the soft bars perfectly.
Finely Shredded Zucchini: 3 cups – The star ingredient that keeps the bars moist and flavorful.
Mini Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup – Offers pockets of sweetness that melt into the bars, making them irresistible.
Powdered Sugar: 1 1/2 cups – Used for a simple glaze that adds a sweet finish to the bars.
Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons – Helps to create a smooth glaze that perfectly coats the bars.
Milk: 2 to 3 tablespoons – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze, making it easy to pour over the bars.
Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds warmth and a subtle spice that complements the other flavors.

How to Prepare Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut

Making Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut is a straightforward process that yields delightful results. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack that everyone will love.

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. It’s essential to get the heat going before you start mixing your ingredients, ensuring the bars bake evenly.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. I find that using a bit of butter or cooking spray works wonders for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes, and it’s crucial as it incorporates air for a lighter texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in the vanilla extract and blend until fully combined. The batter should look smooth and creamy.
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are perfectly okay.
Now it’s time to fold in the fun ingredients! Gently stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, finely shredded zucchini, and mini chocolate chips until everything is evenly distributed.
Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to smooth the top. This helps ensure even baking and an attractive final appearance.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for around 10 to 15 minutes. This cooling period makes it easier to slice the bars.
While the bars are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, and milk in a bowl until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable.
Once cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the bars and let set for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delightful Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut!

Things Worth Knowing

Moisture Management: Always squeeze your shredded zucchini between paper towels before adding it to the batter. This step removes excess moisture, preventing the bars from becoming soggy.
Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the bars after the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean when they are done.
Storage Tips: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for a week.
Flavor Enhancements: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract to the batter.
Serving Suggestions: These bars are great on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Recipe Variations about Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut

While the classic version of Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut is delightful on its own, there are plenty of variations to keep things exciting! Here are some fun tips to try:

Nut Substitutions: Feel free to replace pecans with your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to give the bars a different flavor and texture.
Chocolate Options: For a more indulgent treat, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips. They provide a rich contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
Fruit Additions: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins along with the coconut for a fruity twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or a dash of allspice for an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the zucchini.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.
Vegan Alternative: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for a plant-based version.
Frosting Variation: For a decadent twist, try frosting the cooled bars with cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze for a richer experience.

Serve This Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut With

These scrumptious Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut pair wonderfully with a variety of options, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some great ideas for serving:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A side of refreshing fruit salad complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully, providing a light and healthy contrast.
Ice Cream: Serve the bars warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on top. The melting ice cream creates a delightful creamy contrast.
Tea or Coffee: Pair these bars with a nice cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Picnic Treat: The bars are perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings. They’re easy to pack and transport, making them a delightful addition to any spread.
Brunch Option: Serve them alongside other brunch favorites, such as quiche or bagels, for a diverse and satisfying meal.
Special Occasions: These bars are an excellent choice for birthday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Their unique flavor will make a lasting impression on your guests.
Seasonal Celebrations: In addition to summer gatherings, consider serving these bars during fall festivities when zucchini is still plentiful. They’re a great way to utilize seasonal produce.

FAQ

While zucchini is the star of this recipe, you can try substituting it with grated apples or carrots for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the overall texture and moisture content of the bars.

Leftover Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut should be stored in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze well too!

Absolutely! To make Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the labels to ensure there’s no cross-contamination if you’re sensitive to gluten.

These bars are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Conclusion

These Zucchini Bars with Pecans and Coconut are a wonderful way to celebrate summer’s bounty, turning garden-fresh produce into a sweet treat. I encourage you to try this recipe and impress your friends and family with your baking skills. You’ll find they’re a hit at every gathering, and you might even get hooked on making them year-round!