Zucchini Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you love zucchini bread, you’re going to adore this elevated version topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. This isn’t your average veggie-packed loaf—it’s a soft, moist, slightly spiced quick bread that transforms into a decadent treat when paired with a smooth frosting layer.

Ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, potlucks, or as a lightly sweet dessert, this zucchini bread strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re drowning in garden zucchini or just craving a cozy loaf, this recipe is a must-bake.

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Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

• ✅ Extra Moist thanks to grated zucchini and a touch of oil

• ✅ Kid-Friendly (even with the hidden veggie!)

• ✅ No Mixer Required – One bowl, simple steps

• ✅ Versatile – Enjoy with or without frosting

• ✅ Freezer-Friendly (just freeze the loaf without frosting)

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour (or 1 cup all-purpose + ¾ cup whole wheat)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• ¼ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup light brown sugar

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups grated zucchini (from about 1 medium zucchini, moisture squeezed out)

Optional Add-ins

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

• ¼ cup raisins or dark chocolate chips

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For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz (half a block) cream cheese, softened

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• 1–2 tsp milk or plant milk (optional, to thin)

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How to Make Zucchini Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Grate & Drain Zucchini

Grate zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out excess moisture. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk eggs with sugars until smooth. Add oil, yogurt, and vanilla. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix gently. Fold in zucchini and any optional add-ins. Stir just until combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

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Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat again until creamy and fluffy. Add a splash of milk if needed to thin the frosting to a spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Loaf

Once the bread is completely cool, spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Use a butter knife or offset spatula to create swoops and peaks.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate

Due to the cream cheese frosting, store the frosted loaf in an airtight container in the fridge. Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezer Instructions

• Unfrosted loaf: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

• To thaw: Leave at room temperature, then frost before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with herbal tea or decaf coffee for a relaxing afternoon treat.

• Top with toasted nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon for presentation.

• Slice and warm slightly before serving for a just-baked feel.

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Health Benefits of Zucchini Bread (With a Sweet Twist!)

Zucchini

Zucchini is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber—great for heart and digestive health.

Yogurt

Greek yogurt adds protein and keeps the loaf tender and moist without extra fat.

Spices

Cinnamon and nutmeg offer anti-inflammatory benefits and natural warmth.

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FAQs About Zucchini Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can swap yogurt for dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based cream cheese and butter for the frosting.

What if I don’t want frosting?

Skip it! This zucchini bread is delicious on its own or with a smear of nut butter or jam.

Can I bake this as muffins?

Yes. Divide batter among muffin cups and bake for 18–22 minutes. Adjust frosting as needed.

How do I prevent soggy bread from zucchini?

Make sure to squeeze out the shredded zucchini thoroughly before adding it to the batter.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini bread gets a bakery-worthy makeover with this luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, gifting it to friends, or enjoying a slice after dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s comforting, sweet—but not too sweet—and filled with wholesome goodness.

So next time you’ve got extra zucchini on hand, skip the plain version and frost it up. You’ll be amazed at how much this simple topping can elevate a humble loaf into a true treat.