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