Name: Cream Cheese Glaze
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract

Okay, picture this: It’s Sunday morning, the sun is streaming in, and the smell of warm spices fills the air. What’s the best way to make a zucchini swirl cake with cream cheese glaze? What is the best thing since sliced bread? I know zucchini bread is the reigning champ for using up those late-summer zucchinis, but this cake? What is zucchini bread’s sophisticated cousin? What’s not to like about this cream cheese glaze? Is this a good idea?

What is Zucchini Swirl Cake?

Think of it as a hybrid between coffee cake and zucchini bread, but elevated. What is the best zucchini Cake Recipe? What’s the magic of spiced batter? What is a perfectly marbled cake? What is the “swirl” part of a batter that’s been infused with spices? Is there a hint of cocoa in this? What is the cream cheese glaze? Is there a perfect amount of sweetness and tang to this drink? Is it sweeter than buttercream?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

There are so many reasons to adore this zucchini swirl cake, but let me narrow it down: First, the flavor. The combination of warm spices, the subtle sweetness of the zucchini, and the tang of the cream cheese glaze is just heavenly. It’s the kind of cake that makes you want to curl up with a cup of coffee and savor every bite. What I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is to make. Don’t let the fancy swirl intimidate you! It’s just a matter of layering the batter and swirling it with a knife. Trust me, if I can do it, anyone can! It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. Zucchini is super affordable, especially if you grow your own, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. And let’s not forget its versatility. You can serve this cake for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s also perfect for gifting – who wouldn’t love a slice of this beauty? You might be thinking, “Is this anything like apple cider donut cake?”. While both are delicious, this is where this zucchini cake wins! It has the warmth of spices that both share but brings a fresh veggie to the table!

How do I make Zucchini Swirl Cake?

Quick Overview

Making this zucchini swirl cake is easier than you might think. You’ll start by prepping your ingredients and making the batter. Then, you’ll create the spiced swirl mixture. Layer the batter in a prepared pan, swirl it all together, and bake until golden brown. Finally, you’ll whip up the cream cheese glaze and drizzle it over the cooled cake. The best part? It all comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a weekend baking project. The swirl adds a touch of elegance, but it’s really simple to achieve, even for beginner bakers.

Ingredients

For the Cake:
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 3/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 cups grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out.

For the Swirl:
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup melted butter

What is the cream cheese glaze?
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. I always do this because it makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake. Don’t skip the whisking – it really makes a difference!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before moving on to the next step. This is crucial for a smooth batter.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Gently fold in the grated zucchini until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Prepare Swirl

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon for the swirl. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This is what creates that beautiful marbled effect!

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

How do I make a cake batter? Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Do not overdo cake batter. Pour the remaining batter over the swirl mixture. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batter together. Don’t over-swirl, or you’ll lose the definition. I like to make figure-eight motions for a pretty pattern.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. What is the best way to keep an eye on baking times? If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Add the milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

What is the best way to serve this cake as a dessert? I love to serve this with coffee or tea. Enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

Can you make a zucchini swirl cake? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?

For Breakfast: Pair it with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a comforting morning treat. I love to add a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra protein and texture.

For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread by serving this cake alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and crispy bacon. It looks gorgeous on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

As Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent after-dinner treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra touch of sweetness.

For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea or Hot Chocolate on a chilly afternoon. It’s the perfect comfort food for a relaxing evening.

My family always requests this cake for holiday gatherings. It’s become a tradition, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Zucchini Swirl Cake

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best zucchini swirl cake ever:

Zucchini Prep: Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated zucchini. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy. I like to use a clean kitchen towel to do this.

Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.

Swirl Customization: Get creative with your swirl pattern! Use a knife, skewer, or even a chopstick to create different designs. Just be careful not to over-swirl.

Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a slightly healthier version. Just be aware that it may result in a denser cake. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!

Baking Tips: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent it from burning.

Glaze Variations: For a lemon cream cheese glaze, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the glaze. You can also add a pinch of lemon zest for extra flavor. Alternatively, brown butter before making the glaze for a more nutty taste.

I learned the hard way that using too much zucchini without squeezing out the excess moisture can lead to a soggy cake. Don’t skip that step!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your zucchini swirl cake:

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This is the best way to maintain its moistness.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just be aware that it may dry out slightly.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the cake, it’s best to wait to glaze it until after it has thawed. This prevents the glaze from becoming soggy.

I’ve found that adding a slice of bread to the airtight container helps to keep the cake moist, whether you’re storing it at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular all-purpose flour. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum, as this helps to bind the ingredients together. You may also need to add a bit more moisture to the batter, as gluten-free flours tend to be drier. I’d suggest adding a tablespoon or two of milk or yogurt until the batter reaches the right consistency. Expect a slightly denser texture, but still delicious!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. The skin is perfectly edible and adds a bit of color and texture to the cake. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel it. I usually leave the skin on for the added nutrients and fiber. It also saves time!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! To make muffins, simply fill muffin liners about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The swirl will be less pronounced, but they’ll still taste amazing! This is a great way to make individual portions, too.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter by 1/4 cup. You can also substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the texture of the cake. For the cream cheese glaze, start with less powdered sugar and add more to taste.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of cream cheese glaze, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar or make a simple vanilla glaze. Another option is to top it with a streusel topping before baking for added crunch and sweetness. Or, you can simply enjoy it plain – it’s delicious either way!

Final Thoughts

This zucchini swirl cake with cream cheese glaze is a true winner in my book. It’s moist, flavorful, easy to make, and incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for using up those late-summer zucchinis, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. The cream cheese glaze just makes it perfect, the slight tang with the spices really makes it shine! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes for more baking inspiration. And now, it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear about your variations and creations. Happy baking!