Indulge in the moist and flavorful delight of this zucchini cake with a creamy and tangy cream cheese applesauce icing. Packed with the goodness of zucchini and topped with a luscious icing, this cake is perfect for any occasion or as a delightful treat. The combination of zucchini and applesauce creates a moist texture, while the cream cheese icing adds a rich and creamy finish. This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers. Enjoy a slice of this decadent cake with a cup of coffee or as a dessert to wow your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Stir in the grated zucchini and applesauce into the wet mixture.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- In the meantime, prepare the cream cheese applesauce icing.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and applesauce, beating until well combined and fluffy.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese applesauce icing evenly over the top.
- Garnish with additional grated zucchini or chopped walnuts if desired.
- Slice and serve the zucchini cake with cream cheese applesauce icing. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Zucchini is a versatile ingredient that adds moisture and nutrients to baked goods.
Cream cheese icing is a classic choice for cakes and pairs perfectly with the flavors of zucchini and applesauce.
Applesauce is a great substitute for oil or butter in baking, reducing the fat content while adding flavor and moisture.
Zucchini cake is an excellent way to use up surplus zucchini from your garden or market haul.