Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake is a delightful treat you’ll want to enjoy any time of day. This Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. The blend of cinnamon and shredded zucchini creates a moist cake that tastes almost like apple pie. It’s easy to make and will impress your family and friends with its unique flavor!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Dry Ingredients
• Wet Ingredients
• Zucchini Ingredients
• Crumb Topping Ingredients
• How to Make Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Prepare Crumb Topping
• Step 6: Bake the Cake
• How to Serve Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe
• With Fresh Fruit
• With Beverages
• On a Dessert Platter
• As Breakfast Treats
• How to Perfect Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe
• Reheating Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe special?
• Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
• How do I ensure my coffee cake stays moist?
• Can I make this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of zucchini and cinnamon keeps the cake moist while adding a lovely flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this coffee cake works for any occasion.
• Healthy Twist: Sneaking in veggies makes this cake a slightly healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Zucchini Coffee Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily and keeping your workspace organized.
• Whisk: A must-have for blending dry ingredients thoroughly and ensuring a fluffy texture in the cake.

Ingredients

Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake – my favorite coffee cake recipe filled with cinnamon and cooked zucchini. The zucchini tastes like apple when it’s cooked with cinnamon and sugar!

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (186g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (118ml) milk

Zucchini Ingredients

• 2 cups (approx 206g) shredded zucchini (approx 1 large or 2 small)

Crumb Topping Ingredients

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

How to Make Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Cinnamon

Make sure these dry ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Vegetable oil
3. Egg

Once combined, stir in the milk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the shredded zucchini until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Prepare Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together:
1. Brown sugar
2. Flour
3. Cinnamon
4. Melted butter

Sprinkle this crumb topping over the cake batter evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Coffee Cake, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Zucchini coffee cake is a delightful treat that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether for breakfast or an afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast.
• Banana Slices: Sweet banana slices provide a lovely creamy texture that complements the cake.

With Beverages

• Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the flavors and makes for a perfect morning pairing.
• Tea: Choose herbal or black tea for a calming afternoon break alongside your slice.

On a Dessert Platter

• Cheese: Pair with mild cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta for a sweet-savory combination.
• Nuts: A handful of walnuts or pecans can add crunch and richness to your dessert table.

As Breakfast Treats

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer slices of zucchini coffee cake with yogurt and granola for a wholesome breakfast option.
• Smoothie Bowl: Serve alongside a smoothie bowl topped with fruits and seeds for extra nutrition.

How to Perfect Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

To achieve the best zucchini coffee cake, consider these helpful tips to ensure success in your baking.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini provides better moisture and flavor than pre-packaged options.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing; this helps maintain its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your zucchini coffee cake can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and make this dish more filling.
2. Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing complement to the warm cake.
3. Granola Parfait: Layered yogurt and granola provide crunch and creaminess, enhancing breakfast time.
4. Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese brings a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the cake.
5. Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea serves as a soothing beverage choice alongside your slice.
6. Avocado Toast: The richness of avocado toast contrasts nicely with the sweetness of zucchini coffee cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can help you achieve the perfect Zucchini Coffee Cake. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Using too much zucchini: Adding excessive zucchini can make the cake soggy. Stick to about 2 cups for optimal moisture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect texture and flavor. Use precise measuring cups and spoons.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a delicious finish.
• Not testing for doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Always use a toothpick to check for doneness before removing from the oven.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe special?

This recipe blends the sweetness of zucchini with cinnamon, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like carrots or even apples, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I ensure my coffee cake stays moist?

Make sure not to overbake your cake. Using fresh zucchini also helps maintain moisture.

Can I make this Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

This Zucchini Coffee Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat with coffee. You can customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!