Pioneer Woman Zucchini Cake

Pioneer Woman Zucchini Cake is moist, fluffy, and filled with warm spices — the perfect way to turn fresh garden zucchini into a cozy homemade dessert. With hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, this cake is topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting that makes every bite irresistible.

🥒 Pioneer Woman Zucchini Cake Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar (add more for thicker frosting)
• Pinch of salt

🥮 How To Make Pioneer Woman Zucchini Cake

1. Preheat the oven:
   Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Mix the wet ingredients:
   In another bowl, combine sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
4. Combine the mixtures:
   Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the grated zucchini (do not overmix).
5. Bake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   Let cool completely before frosting.
6. Make the frosting:
   Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla and salt, then gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
7. Frost and serve:
   Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

💭 Recipe Tips

• Don’t peel the zucchini: The skin adds color and nutrients, and it disappears as the cake bakes.
• Squeeze out moisture: Gently press grated zucchini in a towel to remove excess water.
• Add texture: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra flavor.
• Make it lighter: Replace half the oil with applesauce for a healthier twist.
• Chill before slicing: The cake tastes even better once cooled and slightly chilled.

🥃 What To Serve With Zucchini Cake?

Serve Zucchini Cake with a cup of coffee or hot tea for the perfect afternoon treat. It also pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for a summer dessert.

🎚 How To Store Leftovers Zucchini Cake?

• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze frosted or unfrosted slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

FAQs

📊 Pioneer Woman Zucchini Cake Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 270mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 32g
• Protein: 4g