ZUCCHINI CAKE
Who wants a piece of zucchini cake? If you ask that question, you may get a lot of turned up noses. But the truth is, zucchini cake is delicious. Zucchini adds moisture to cake like applesauce does. It has a wonderful texture and it tastes great. So shhh, don't tell your children. They will never know its in there. When I make this cake, I like to grate my zucchini by hand. It is so relaxing to grate your vegetables, cheeses and anything else you have to grate this way. At least I find it to be so. Sure, an electric one is faster, but it's definitely not as relaxing. Sometimes the old ways of doing things are more satisfying. Sure, technology is great, but some things are just better left un-changed. Like sitting out on the porch on a summer day shelling peas or pole beans. Especially if you are maybe fortunate enough to be doing this with a parent or grandparent.
Okay, back to the zucchini. In addition to the great taste and texture, zucchini has many health benefits. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. And, there are only 17 calories in a whole cup. It is rich in antioxidants, contributes to healthy digestion, and reduces blood sugar levels. So go ahead and treat yourself to a slice of this delicious cake. Bon Appe'tit
What you will need: 2 1/2 cups of flour - 2 cups of sugar - 1 1/2 tsps. of cinnamon - 1 tsp. of salt - 1/2 tsp. of baking powder - 1/2 tsp. of baking soda - 1 cup of vegetable oil - 4 eggs - 2 cups of shredded zucchini - 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, optional - For Frosting you will need: 3 oz. of cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup of butter, softened - 1 Tbsp. of milk - 1 tsp. of vanilla - 2 cups of confectioners sugar
To make the cake: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
In another bowl, combine oil and eggs thoroughly. Then add to dry ingredients. Mix well.
Add zucchini and stir by hand, not with the mixer. Pour into a greased 13x9x2 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes, or until knife inserted comes out clean. Cool.
For the frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add confectioners sugar and mix well. Frost cake. Sprinkle with nuts if desired. Make sure to store the cake in the refrigerator.
