Lemon Zucchini Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Lemon Zucchini Cake is a delightful combination of moist, citrusy cake and creamy tangy frosting. Packed with fresh zucchini and bright lemon flavors, it’s a perfect dessert for summer gatherings or anytime you want a light, refreshing treat. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and garnished with lemon zest, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder 🧁
• ½ teaspoon baking soda 🥄
• 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• 2 large eggs 🥚🥚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest 🍋
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 🍋
• 1 cup grated zucchini, unpeeled 🥒 (about 1 medium zucchini)
• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt 🥛

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• 2 cups powdered sugar 🍥
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋
• Lemon zest, for garnish 🍋

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans . Alternatively, line the pans with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour , baking powder , baking soda , and salt . Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes ).
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Add the vanilla extract , lemon zest , and lemon juice , mixing until combined.

Step 4: Add Zucchini and Sour Cream

1. Fold in the grated zucchini and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until well combined. The batter will be thick but moist from the zucchini.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

1. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes (or 20–25 minutes for round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
4. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 1–2 minutes ).
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar , vanilla extract , and lemon juice , mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once combined, increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable (about 2–3 minutes ).

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For layered cakes, frost between layers and around the sides as desired.
2. Garnish with extra lemon zest for a pop of color and brightness.
3. Slice and serve your Lemon Zucchini Cake with pride!

Tips for Success

• Zucchini Prep: There’s no need to peel the zucchini—its skin adds moisture and nutrients. Pat it dry with a paper towel if it’s overly wet.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days . Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
• Frosting Tip: If the frosting feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before spreading.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Zucchini Cake is a celebration of fresh flavors and textures. The zucchini keeps the cake incredibly moist, while the lemon zest and juice bring a bright, citrusy tang. Paired with the rich, creamy cream cheese frosting, it’s a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress. Dive into this zesty, creamy delight and savor every bite!