Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake

Name: Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup grated zucchini; 1 cup peeled and diced apples; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

A delightful blend of flavors, this Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is perfect for brunch or as an afternoon treat. Moist and flavorful, it's a great way to sneak in some vegetables!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-20T11:10:12.029Z

This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake combines the sweetness of apples with the subtle earthiness of zucchini, creating a moist and flavorful cake that's perfect for coffee breaks or dessert. It's a family favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with a delightful texture
Perfectly sweet with a hint of spice
A great way to use up summer zucchini

      

The Benefits of Baking with Zucchini

Incorporating zucchini into baked goods is a fantastic way to boost their nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, making it an excellent addition to sweet treats like this coffee cake. The moisture from the zucchini keeps the cake tender and prevents it from drying out, resulting in a deliciously moist texture that everyone will love.

Moreover, zucchini is rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut. By sneaking in this vegetable, you not only enhance the taste but also make a more wholesome dessert that can be enjoyed guilt-free. This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is a great way to introduce more vegetables into your family's diet in a fun and delicious way.

Perfect Pairings for Your Coffee Cake

This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. For a classic brunch experience, consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad. The bright flavors of seasonal fruits complement the warm spices in the cake, creating a delightful contrast.

If you're looking for a comforting beverage to enjoy alongside, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea is ideal. The rich flavors of the coffee will enhance the sweetness of the cake, making every bite a true indulgence. For a more decadent treat, drizzle a bit of cream cheese frosting over the top for an extra special touch.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To keep your Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerating the cake can extend its freshness for up to a week. Just be sure to let it cool completely before covering it to prevent moisture buildup.

For those who want to prepare ahead, freezing the coffee cake is a great option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of this cake any time you wish!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup grated zucchini
1 cup peeled and diced apples
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Add Zucchini and Apples

Fold in the grated zucchini and diced apples into the wet mixture.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the topping: chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, sprinkle the topping over it, and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!

Nutritional Highlights

This Apple Zucchini Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each slice provides a good source of vitamins and minerals, primarily from the zucchini and apples. The combination of these fruits helps to provide essential fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Using vegetable oil rather than butter keeps the cake moist while also making it dairy-free, which is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, the inclusion of walnuts adds healthy fats and protein, making this cake a more balanced treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can add a chewy texture and extra sweetness. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a unique flavor profile.

If you're in the mood for a spice kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of ginger to the batter. For those who enjoy a bit of chocolate, folding in some chocolate chips can elevate the dessert to a whole new level of indulgence. The possibilities are endless!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen zucchini?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before adding it to the batter.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the apples?

Yes, you can use pears or even a mix of both for a different flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.