Description
This Lemon Zucchini Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is moist, tangy, and perfectly sweet. With the subtle flavor of zucchini and a luscious cream cheese center, this cake is a delightful dessert that’s ideal for spring, summer, or any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the cake:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup (100 g) grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
For the cream cheese filling:
- 1 pack (225 g / 8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cream cheese filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the cake batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in the grated zucchini.
Step 3: Assemble the cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Gently spoon the cream cheese filling over the batter, spreading it carefully to form an even layer.
- Top with the remaining cake batter, spreading it to cover the cream cheese filling completely.
Step 4: Bake the cake
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the cream cheese layer) comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed.
Step 6: Glaze and serve
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Zucchini tip: Pat the grated zucchini with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for a lighter cake.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.