Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or an afternoon snack, this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is just what you need. It’s one of my favorite recipes because it combines the delightful flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the moisture of shredded zucchini, making it incredibly delicious and comforting. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something easy yet impressive.

What makes this recipe special is how the zucchini blends seamlessly into the cake, adding a subtle sweetness that reminds me of apples. This cake is not only scrumptious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies! So grab your apron, and let’s bake something truly delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the warm cinnamon flavor; kids won’t even realize they’re eating zucchini!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for breakfast or snacks.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and moist zucchini creates a cake that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Everything you need can likely be found in your pantry or at your local grocery store. Let’s gather them so we can get started on this delightful Zucchini Coffee Cake.

For the Cake

• 1 ½ cups (186g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (118ml) milk
• 2 cups (approx 206g) shredded zucchini (approx 1 large or 2 small)

For the Crumb Topping

• ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (8g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons (28g) butter, melted

Variations

One of the best things about this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand!

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delicious twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mix and use plant-based milk to keep it vegan-friendly.

How to Make Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the moment you put it in. Next, spray an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with cooking spray so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your cake rises perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined. Then add in the milk and mix again. This mixture provides moisture to your cake while keeping it light!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Now it’s time to combine! Gently fold in your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender crumb. Finally, fold in those lovely shreds of zucchini that will make this cake so moist.

Step 5: Add Crumb Topping

For that irresistible crumb topping, stir together brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until it’s crumbly. Sprinkle this over your cake batter before baking—it adds a sweet crunch that everyone will love!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!

And there you have it—a delightful Zucchini Coffee Cake that’s sure to become a favorite! Enjoy each slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Baking a delicious zucchini coffee cake is all about the little details that make a big difference. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini not only adds moisture but also a subtle flavor that blends beautifully with the spices. Older or wilted zucchini may have less flavor and can affect the texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while a light hand keeps it fluffy and tender.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack will help maintain its structure. Slicing too soon can result in a crumbly mess.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. These spices complement cinnamon and enhance the overall taste profile of your coffee cake.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. This helps maintain moisture and freshness.

How to Serve Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Serving your zucchini coffee cake can be as fun as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this scrumptious treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying crunch and complement the soft texture of the cake.
• Fresh fruit slices: Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas on the side for a pop of color and added freshness.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt offers a creamy contrast and tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the sweet coffee cake.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed fruits balances out the richness of the cake while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, complements the spiced flavors of your coffee cake and makes for a cozy snack.
• Coffee: Of course, serving this coffee cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances its name and creates a comforting breakfast or afternoon treat.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and bake up this delightful Zucchini Coffee Cake! Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Coffee Cake recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. Whether you want to bake ahead for busy mornings or have a delightful dessert on hand, this cake stores wonderfully.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator where it can last up to 5 days.
• Be sure to cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil to maintain its moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, you can microwave the slice for about 15-20 seconds or warm it up in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while preparing your Zucchini Coffee Cake.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in the Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.

How does zucchini affect the taste of this coffee cake?

The zucchini adds moisture and sweetness, making it taste similar to apple when cooked with cinnamon and sugar. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies without compromising flavor!

Can I make this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk instead. The results will still be delicious!

Is this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! This coffee cake is perfect as a sweet breakfast option paired with your morning coffee or tea.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying this Zucchini Coffee Cake recipe! It’s not just a delightful treat but also an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring each slice. Happy baking!