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Moist Lemon Zucchini Cake

Moist Lemon Zucchini Cake: A Burst of Sunshine on Your Plate

Moist Lemon Zucchini Cake

This delightful lemon zucchini cake is a perfect blend of tangy lemon and subtle zucchini sweetness. It's a moist and tender treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers exceptional results.

Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 65 minutes Servings: 12

Ingredients:

  • 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
  • ⅔ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon lemon extract
  • ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded zucchini (moisture removed)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Preparing the Zucchini:

  • Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater.
  • Wrap the grated zucchini in paper towels or clean kitchen towels.
  • Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy cake.

Combining the Wet Ingredients:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, vegetable oil, lemon zest, and lemon extract until well combined.
  • Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Stir in the plain Greek yogurt until smooth.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients:

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:

  • Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently, mixing only until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough cake.
  • Gently fold in the prepared zucchini.

Baking the Cake:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  • Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and dry.

Cooling and Serving:

  • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting or glazing.
  • For a classic flavor, top with a tangy lemon cream cheese frosting. Alternatively, a simple powdered sugar glaze adds a delicate sweetness.

Tips for a Moist and Delicious Cake:

  • Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even baking and a better texture.
  • Avoid opening the oven door frequently: This can cause the cake to deflate and become dense.
  • Fresh ingredients: Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor.
  • Experiment with flavors: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth, or try using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

This moist lemon zucchini cake is a delightful treat that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a casual dessert. Its fresh flavors and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this sunshine-inspired cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a truly indulgent experience.

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