Lemon Zucchini Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Combine Sugars and Oil: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
5. Add Zucchini: Stir in the grated zucchini.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Flavoring: Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice. Beat until fluffy and well combined.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

1. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with additional lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Tips for Success

• Zucchini Preparation: Grate the zucchini finely, and if it’s very watery, squeeze out some excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel.
• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: The cake can also be frozen without the frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Lemon Zucchini Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that showcases the wonderful combination of fresh flavors. Perfectly moist and bursting with lemony goodness, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy zucchini in a dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite! 🍋🍰✨