Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines comfort and sweetness, you’ve come to the right place! This Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying or a lovely addition to family gatherings. The secret? The zucchini adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that makes this cake oh-so-delicious—trust me, no one will even guess it’s there!

I love how this recipe brings together warm spices and the unique texture of shredded zucchini. It truly is a cozy hug in cake form, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the flavor, and it’s a sneaky way to add veggies to their diet!
• Make-ahead convenience: This cake stays fresh for days, making it great for meal prep.
• Deliciously moist: The zucchini keeps the cake tender, while the cinnamon adds warmth and spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will be a breeze! You probably have most of them in your pantry already. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this delightful 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 (about 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

The beauty of this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Chocolate twist: Substitute half the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
• Fruit addition: Mix in some blueberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture.
• Spice it up: Experiment with ginger or nutmeg alongside the cinnamon for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly. While that heats up, spray an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with cooking spray so your cake won’t stick.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step is important as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout your batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined. Then stir in the milk. Mixing these wet ingredients first helps achieve a smooth batter before adding anything dry.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to gently fold in your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to be tender! Finally, fold in the shredded zucchini so it gets evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Prepare Crumb Topping

For that delightful crumb topping, mix together brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously over your cake batter—it adds such a lovely texture!

Step 6: Bake

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, you’re good to go!

And there you have it—your very own homemade Zucchini Coffee Cake! Enjoy every bite with friends or family; they’ll surely savor this warm treat just as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Baking is an art, and with a few simple tricks, you can make your zucchini coffee cake even more delightful!

• Grate the zucchini finely: A finer grate ensures that the zucchini blends seamlessly into the batter, making it almost undetectable while still providing moisture and sweetness.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon can elevate the flavor of your coffee cake significantly. It brings out a warmth that complements the zucchini beautifully.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that’s not as enjoyable.

• Let it cool before cutting: Allowing your coffee cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes will help it set, making it easier to slice without falling apart.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to stir in some nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Just remember to keep the quantities moderate to maintain the integrity of the cake.

How to Serve Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Serving your delicious zucchini coffee cake can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries on the side adds color and a burst of tartness that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt makes an excellent accompaniment, adding richness and a tangy flavor that pairs well with sweet dishes.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a bright complement to the warm flavors of your coffee cake, enhancing both taste and nutrition.

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a cozy beverage option that enhances your breakfast or snack experience, perfect for enjoying alongside this delightful dessert.

Enjoy every slice of your Zucchini Coffee Cake! Whether it’s for breakfast or an afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and moist cake throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cooled cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• To reheat the whole cake, cover it with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this delightful recipe!

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour! The texture may be slightly denser, but it will still be delicious and nutritious.

How can I make this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, consider reducing the sugar slightly or using a sugar alternative. You can also add nuts or seeds for added nutrition and crunch.

What can I serve with my Zucchini Coffee Cake?

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea! You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or fresh fruit on the side.

How long does this Zucchini Coffee Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a lovely way to incorporate vegetables into your breakfast. Whether you’re sharing it with friends over coffee or enjoying a slice solo, this cake is sure to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!