A Slice of Sunshine (Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake)

Welcome to the world of Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake, where comfort and creativity collide in the most delicious way! This moist, fragrant cake is like a warm hug on a plate, filled with the cozy notes of cinnamon and the sweet surprise of tender, shredded zucchini. Believe it or not, this lovely green veggie transforms into a dreamy, cake-like texture that evokes the sweetness of apples when paired with sugar and spice. Perfect for brunch or a sweet afternoon treat, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this delightful treat for so many reasons:
– Big, Bold Flavors: The warm embrace of cinnamon and the subtle sweetness of zucchini create an irresistible flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy coffee date or a family gathering, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous get-togethers.
– Make-Ahead Magic: This cake keeps beautifully, allowing you to bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get your apron on because this Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake is as easy to make as it is to devour! Let’s gather our ingredients and talk about a couple of flavor game-changers—cinnamon and zucchini! These two add warmth and moisture, making this cake a standout treat.

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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

One of the best things about Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake is how customizable it can be! Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in a handful of chopped nuts or some protein powder for an added boost!
– Make it Spicier: Introduce a hint of nutmeg or allspice for an extra kick in flavor.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different oils, like coconut or olive oil, to see how it changes the flavor.
– Cheese it Up: Add a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top for an indulgent twist!

How to Make Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake

Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the steps! This Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake is as easy as 1-2-3!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan and give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent any sticking.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is well mixed and ready to create that delightful flavor base!

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth. Gradually mix in the milk, creating a lovely cloud of sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Now it’s time to fold in the shredded zucchini, adding that hidden gem of moisture.

Step 5: Create the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter to create a crumbly topping. Sprinkle this beautiful mixture over the cake batter, allowing the flavors to meld in the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake

– Squeeze the Zucchini: Before adding shredded zucchini, squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel to prevent your cake from becoming too soggy.
– Keep it Fresh: For the best flavor, use freshly ground cinnamon—it’ll elevate the taste to another level!
– Add a Glaze: A simple icing made with powdered sugar and a splash of milk can add an extra touch of sweetness on top.
– Store at Room Temperature: This cake stays moist at room temperature for a couple of days, so keep it covered to keep the goodness in!

How to Serve Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake

Garnishes

Elevate your cake with a dusting of powdered sugar for a gorgeous finish, or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for added sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair this delightful coffee cake with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative with your presentation! Serve individual slices on charming dessert plates, or arrange them on a beautiful platter with some decorative greenery to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s a wonderful treat that stays moist and delicious!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this cake! Simply wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for those unexpected sweet cravings!

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen slices, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up. Enjoy it slightly warm for that fresh-baked feel!

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can try almond flour, the texture will be different. If you want to experiment, consider blending it with a gluten-free flour mix.

Is this recipe spicy?
No, this cake is gently spiced with cinnamon, making it a warm and inviting dessert without any heat!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! This cake stores wonderfully, so you can bake it a day or two ahead of your gathering.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an enchanting recipe for Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee Cake that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home! With its cozy flavors and easy preparation, you’ll feel excited to share this delightful dish with everyone you know. So roll up your sleeves, grab your zucchini, and get baking! You won’t regret it! 🍰✨