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Zucchini is a powerhouse when it comes to nutrition, offering a variety of health benefits that contribute to a balanced diet. This low-calorie vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. Its high water content also makes it an excellent choice for keeping baked goods moist without the need for excessive fats or sugars.

Zucchini Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Zucchini Delight Bread with Creamy Frosting! This unique recipe combines the earthy flavor of zucchini with warm baking spices for a moist, flavorful loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this bread is not just tasty but also nutritious, sneaking in essential veggies into your diet. Topped with creamy frosting, it elevates the experience and is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!

Ingredients
  

2 cups shredded zucchini (approximately 1 medium zucchini)

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ cup vegetable oil

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick spray and dusting it with flour, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Zucchini: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the zucchini. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, gather the edges of the towel, and twist to wring out excess moisture. Set the drained zucchini aside.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined. Set this bowl aside.

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, unsweetened applesauce, and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture with a whisk or electric mixer until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the two together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the shredded zucchini and chopped nuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

            Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and, if needed, adjust the consistency of the frosting with milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it's spreadable.

                  Frost the Bread: Once the zucchini bread has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional chopped nuts or a light sprinkle of cinnamon.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Slice the delicious zucchini bread and serve it fresh. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors! Store any leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 10-12 slices

                        Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the slices on a decorative platter and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers for a pop of color.