Easy Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking zucchini cookies with unexpected cream cheese frosting can turn an ordinary afternoon into a sweet adventure.

Summer gardens often overflow with green squash begging to become something delicious.

Tucked inside these soft treats, shredded zucchini adds moisture and subtle complexity to each bite.

Cream cheese frosting brings a rich, tangy layer that complements the gentle vegetable notes perfectly.

Surprisingly light and tender, these cookies showcase how vegetables can become decadent desserts without feeling heavy or dense.

Mixing this recipe promises a delightful surprise that will make you rethink traditional cookie expectations.

How to Store Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent cream cheese frosting from spoiling.
• Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Separate unfrosted cookies from frosting, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for 2-3 months. Thaw and add fresh cream cheese frosting when ready to enjoy.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs on Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Are zucchini cookies healthy?

Zucchini adds moisture and nutrients to these cookies, making them slightly healthier than traditional cookies. They provide vitamin A, fiber, and reduce the amount of fat needed in the recipe.

• Can I use other spices in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom for different flavor profiles. Just keep the total amount of spices similar to maintain the cookie’s texture and taste.

• How do I prevent my cookies from being too wet?

Gently squeeze out excess moisture from grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel before adding to the dough. This helps prevent overly soft or soggy cookies.

Why Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Are So Irresistible

• Rescue Veggie Dessert: Transform ordinary zucchini into a delightful sweet treat that sneaks extra nutrition into a crowd-pleasing cookie.
• Quick Baking Adventure: Craft these cookies with minimal prep and straightforward steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want a hassle-free baking experience.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Create a soft, warmly spiced cookie that appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weekend snacking.
• Seasonal Baking Charm: Capitalize on summer zucchini abundance by turning excess garden produce into a delectable dessert that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients Needed for Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a soft, tender texture.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie's chewy consistency.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
• Zucchini: Adds moisture and subtle vegetable sweetness to the cookies.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structural base of the cookies.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and creates a light texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: Warm spices that add depth and complexity to the cookie's taste.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a tangy, smooth frosting that complements the spiced cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Grab parchment paper and line your baking sheets. Switch on the oven and set the temperature to 350F (175C) to get it nice and warm.

Step 2: Create Creamy Cookie Base

In a big mixing bowl, blend butter and sugar until they become light and airy. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until everything looks smooth and combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Zucchini

Grate fresh zucchini and fold it directly into your cookie mixture. The veggie will add moisture and a subtle green hint to your treats.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ground cloves

Whisk these ingredients together to ensure even distribution.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything blends smoothly without overmixing.

Step 6: Shape Cookie Dough

Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Use the back of a spoon to flatten each cookie slightly for even baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Place baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cookie edges turn golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Finish

Let cookies rest on baking sheets for a few minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before adding cream cheese frosting.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over cooled cookies. Enjoy these soft, delightful zucchini treats with friends and family.

Pro Tips for Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Squeeze excess moisture from grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel to prevent soggy cookies and maintain perfect texture.
• Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version that keeps the cookies soft and moist.
• Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and depth of flavor in each bite.
• Store cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
• Experiment with spice ratios by adjusting cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to personalize the warm, comforting flavor profile of the cookies.

Flavorful Variations for Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Chocolate Chip Zucchini Cookies: Add 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, indulgent treat that combines the moistness of zucchini with classic chocolate flavor.
• Nutty Harvest Cookies: Mix in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to create a crunchy texture and enhance the warm, autumn-inspired spice profile of the cookies.
• Lemon Zest Zucchini Cookies: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy undertone that complements the cream cheese frosting.

Pairing Ideas for Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Pair Zesty Citrus Tea: Bright lemon or orange herbal tea complements the warm spices in the zucchini cookies, creating a refreshing balance.
• Enhance Sweet Dessert Wine: Select a light moscato or late harvest riesling to match the cookie's sweetness and highlight its delicate cream cheese frosting.
• Blend Creamy Cappuccino: The rich espresso and smooth milk foam perfectly contrast the soft cookie texture while echoing its warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes.
• Serve Chilled Vanilla Milk: A classic cold milk option brings out the cookie's subtle sweetness and provides a clean, smooth drinking experience.

Soft and Chewy Zucchini Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.9 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 25-27 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Zucchini Cookies blend garden-fresh goodness with sweet indulgence, creating a delightful treat that surprises and satisfies. Cream cheese frosting crowns these tender morsels, promising a delectable experience you won’t soon forget.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Leavening:

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper for optimal non-stick baking.
2. Using an electric mixer, whip butter and sugar until the mixture becomes airy and pale, creating a fluffy base for the cookies.
3. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to ensure smooth integration of wet ingredients.
4. Fold in freshly grated zucchini, distributing the vegetable evenly throughout the dough for moisture and subtle flavor.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to eliminate potential lumps.
6. Gradually introduce the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a uniform dough forms without overmixing.
7. Scoop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, gently pressing down with the back of a spoon to create slight thickness.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for golden-brown edges indicating perfect doneness.
9. Remove from oven and let cookies rest on baking sheets for 3-4 minutes to firm up slightly.
10. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack, allowing them to cool completely before applying cream cheese frosting.

Notes

• Grate zucchini carefully and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel to prevent soggy cookies.
• Use room temperature ingredients like butter and egg to ensure smooth, even mixing and better cookie texture.
• For gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free blend, maintaining same measurement proportions.
• Enhance cookie’s nutrition by adding chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for extra crunch and flavor complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 117 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 95 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg