Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful way to start your morning or to enjoy during an afternoon coffee break, let me introduce you to my cherished Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe! This cake is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. The combination of cinnamon and shredded zucchini creates a moist, flavorful cake that might just remind you of baked apples. I love serving this at family gatherings or on busy weeknights when I need something comforting yet easy to whip up. Trust me, every bite is worth savoring!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this cake baking in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the sweet flavors while you sneak in some veggies—it’s a win-win!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time, and enjoy it fresh whenever you want!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The warm spices and sweetness make this coffee cake irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are all simple, wholesome items that you may already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:

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

This Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is wonderfully versatile! You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Dried Fruits Delight: Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for everyone.

How to Make Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly from the get-go. Grease an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with cooking spray so the cake comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step is crucial because mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined. Then slowly mix in the milk. This creates a lovely base that will keep your cake moist. Now it’s time to add those dry ingredients—you want to stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

Step 4: Add Zucchini

Fold in the shredded zucchini gently. This will add moisture and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon with melted butter. Stir until crumbly. This topping adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness—just what you want on top of that soft cake!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter and place your pan in the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply heavenly!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this cozy Zucchini Coffee Cake! It’s perfect on its own or paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Making the perfect Zucchini Coffee Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful techniques. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out deliciously every time!

• Use fresh zucchini – Fresh, seasonal zucchini not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the cake, making it extra tender.

• Grate zucchini finely – Finely shredding the zucchini helps it blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring you get that lovely moist texture without large chunks.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined prevents gluten development, which can make your coffee cake tough. A light hand will give you that fluffy crumb we all love.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick – Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cake at the 30-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

• Let it cool before slicing – Allowing your cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes ensures that it firms up and makes slicing easier without falling apart.

How to Serve Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Serving your Zucchini Coffee Cake is just as important as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation delightful and appealing.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
• Chopped nuts – Toasted walnuts or pecans add a crunchy texture and enhance the nuttiness of the cake while providing a lovely contrast to its softness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweet coffee cake, making for a colorful plate.
• Yogurt parfait – Layering creamy yogurt with granola and berries creates a delightful contrast and adds protein, making for a well-rounded breakfast option.
• Herbal tea or coffee – Pair your coffee cake with a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee. The warm beverages enhance the spices in the cake and create a cozy atmosphere perfect for breakfast or brunch.
• Scrambled eggs or tofu scramble – Adding some scrambled eggs or a tofu scramble brings protein into your meal, balancing out the sweetness of the coffee cake for a satisfying start to your day.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making busy mornings a little sweeter.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the coffee cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cool the coffee cake completely, then slice it into individual servings.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Remove from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• For a crispier texture, reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of squash instead of zucchini in this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use yellow squash as a substitute. Just ensure it’s shredded similarly to zucchini for the best results.

What makes this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe so special?

The magic lies in the combination of cinnamon and shredded zucchini, which adds moisture while keeping the cake light and fluffy. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a delightful treat that feels cozy yet refreshing.

Is this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe suitable for breakfast?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s sweet enough to feel like dessert but wholesome enough to kickstart your day.

Can I adjust the sugar content in this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe?

Definitely! You can reduce the sugar slightly or substitute it with a sugar alternative if you prefer a less sweet option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies. Whether you serve it at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, I’m sure it will bring joy to your table. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!