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Carrot Zucchini Crumb Cake

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1 cup grated zucchini squeeze out excess moisture

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the crumb topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside while you prepare the cake.
  • Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square or round baking pan with butter or nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor.
  • Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Combine wet and dry ingredients: Reduce the mixer speed and gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the yogurt or sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
  • Fold in vegetables: Gently fold in the grated carrots and zucchini, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The moisture from the zucchini keeps the cake soft and tender.
  • Assemble the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter, pressing lightly so it sticks in places but still keeps a crumbly texture.
  • Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The topping should be golden brown and slightly crunchy.
  • Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes. Remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely if desired. Slice into squares or wedges and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Keyword Carrot Zucchini Crumb Cake