Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars: Buttery

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Grate the zucchini using the small holes of a box grater. Place the shreds in a colander or clean kitchen towel and press firmly to remove excess water until damp but not dripping.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until pale and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
5. Fold in the squeezed zucchini and chocolate chips using a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until the edges are a deep golden brown.
7. For the optional frosting, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, then spread over the cooled bars.