Description
Transform your extra zucchini into a moist, spiced, and utterly delicious dessert with this Zucchini Cake recipe. Featuring warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion. Serve it plain or elevate it with a creamy cream cheese frosting for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Cake:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, ½ cup raisins
Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Beat eggs and sugar in a large bowl until smooth (about 2 minutes). Add oil and vanilla, mixing well.
- Incorporate Zucchini: Stir grated zucchini into the wet mixture without squeezing out moisture.
- Combine: Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in optional mix-ins if desired.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Frost (Optional): Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, followed by vanilla. Adjust consistency with milk as needed and spread over cooled cake.
Notes
No need to peel zucchini; the skin adds texture and blends seamlessly.
Substitute vegetable oil with melted butter or applesauce for a healthier twist.
Add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or a pinch of ground ginger for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12–16 slices
