Name: Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cup + 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini; 6 oz cream cheese, softened; 6 oz unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar (plus more if needed); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Introduction

Zucchini cookies offer a delightful way to enjoy a sweet treat with a hidden veggie twist. These soft, spiced cookies topped with creamy cream cheese frosting are perfect for any occasion. They combine subtle warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg with moist shredded zucchini for a unique flavor and texture.

The image shows a close-up of soft round cookies arranged on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two layers: the base is a light brown dough with visible tiny green specks and a slightly rough texture, indicating zucchini bits. On top, there is a smooth, thick layer of creamy white frosting spread evenly. Small walnut pieces are sprinkled on the frosting for texture and decoration. One cookie is broken in half and leaning on another, revealing the moist, textured inside with visible green zucchini shreds embedded in the dough. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 3/4 cup + 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp ground ginger

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar

1 large egg

1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini

6 oz cream cheese, softened

6 oz unsalted butter, softened

Powdered sugar (approximately 1 cup, for frosting)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.

Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light-brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the shredded zucchini evenly.

Step 5: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

Step 6: While the cookies bake, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add about 1 cup of powdered sugar, adjusting to reach your desired consistency. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Step 7: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, frost the cookies generously with the cream cheese frosting.

Tips & Variations

Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded zucchini if it feels very wet to prevent soggy cookies.

For a nutty touch, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.

Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniformly sized cookies for even baking.

Frost the cookies only after they are fully cooled to prevent the frosting from melting.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is important for freshness. Before serving, let cookies come to room temperature or enjoy chilled. You can also freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months and frost them after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use zucchini without shredding it?

Shredding zucchini is important as it distributes moisture and texture evenly throughout the cookie. Whole or chopped zucchini won’t blend into the dough properly and may affect baking.

Can I make these cookies without the frosting?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own with their warm spices and moist texture. The frosting is optional but adds a creamy sweetness that complements the flavors well.