Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that surprises with a burst of moisture and a hint of spice, look no further than this Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cookies marry the subtle earthiness of fresh zucchini with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped up in a tender, soft bite. The creamy frosting adds a luscious finish that turns a humble vegetable into an irresistible dessert. This recipe is the perfect way to sneak some greens into a sweet snack, making it a beloved classic you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to baking these scrumptious cookies. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, texture, or that comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

• 1/2 cup butter, softened: Provides rich flavor and tender crumb to the cookies
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with browning
• 1 egg: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor
• 1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed of excess moisture): Keeps cookies moist and adds subtle veggie goodness
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the cookies
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise and stay soft
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds additional lift for a light texture
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings cozy spice notes to the dough
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty aroma
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the frosting—rich and tangy
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened: Makes frosting creamy and smooth
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor

How to Make Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 Celsius). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep sets you up for perfect baking results.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter together with granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is important because it incorporates air into the dough, helping your cookies become tender and soft.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients introduce moisture and a lovely aroma that will permeate every bite of your cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Grated Zucchini

Stir in the grated zucchini, making sure you’ve squeezed out any excess water so your cookies don’t become soggy. The zucchini adds both hydration and a subtle vegetable sweetness that makes these cookies so unique.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices and leavening agents ensure your cookies have the perfect lift and a warm, fragrant flavor.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet zucchini mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so be gentle here to maintain a tender texture.

Step 7: Shape and Bake Your Cookies

Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Pop them in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. This luscious frosting brings the perfect balance of tang and sweetness to your zucchini cookies.

Step 9: Frost and Enjoy

Once your cookies are fully cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each one. Get ready to indulge in a cookie that’s as delicious as it is unique.

How to Serve Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Consider adding a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for a delightful crunch and added texture. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few chocolate chips can also make them feel extra special and visually inviting.

Side Dishes

These zucchini cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea or rich coffee. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt parfaits to balance out the sweetness with some fresh brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies into a charming little tower tied with a rustic ribbon for a gift-worthy look. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies together with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting for a double-decker treat that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your zucchini cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week without losing any flavor or moisture.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze them unfrosted in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely and frost just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and creamy.

Reheating

To bring a bit of warmth and softness back to your cookies, microwave an individual cookie for about 10 seconds. Avoid reheating the frosted cookies for extended periods as this can cause the frosting to melt and become too soft.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini in this recipe?

Absolutely! Yellow squash has a similar moisture content and mild flavor, making it an excellent substitute in this Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Do I need to peel the zucchini before grating?

There is no need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds beautiful color and nutrients without affecting the texture negatively.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just be sure to keep the same measurement for the best results.

How long do these cookies keep well after frosting?

Frosted zucchini cookies keep best in the refrigerator for about 4 days. After that, the texture and flavor may start to diminish.

Is it necessary to remove the zucchini’s moisture?

Yes, squeezing out excess moisture is important to prevent your cookies from becoming too wet or heavy, which ensures they bake up tender but not soggy.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a try—it’s such a wonderful, comforting way to enjoy humble zucchini in a sweet, cozy form. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become one of your favorites in no time.

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