Cinnamon Zucchini Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Snack On Meat

Looking for a sweet treat that sneaks in some veggies? This Cinnamon Zucchini Cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Unlike traditional carrot cake, zucchini has a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with warm cinnamon and sweet frosting. It’s a dessert your whole family will love!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups shredded zucchini

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Add Zucchini: Fold in the shredded zucchini with a spatula. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
6. Prepare Frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy.
7. Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon if desired.

Tips & Storage

• Make Ahead: Both the cake and frosting can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store separately in the fridge until ready to assemble.
• Freezing: Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest to the batter for a subtle citrus twist.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Cinnamon Zucchini Cake is a simple way to enjoy a sweet treat with a hidden veggie boost!