- ½ tsp **ground nutmeg** (optional, for added depth)
- ½ tsp **salt** (to balance sweetness)
- **For the Hidden Frosting Layer:**
- 8 oz **cream cheese** (softened, for a creamy texture)
- ¼ cup **unsalted butter** (softened, for richness)
- 1 cup **powdered sugar** (for sweetness and smoothness)
- 1 tsp **vanilla extract** (to complement the frosting flavor)
- **Optional Add-Ins for the Cake:**
- ½ cup **chopped walnuts** or **pecans** (for crunch and nutty flavor)
- ½ cup **raisins** or **dried cranberries** (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tbsp **orange zest** (for a citrusy twist)
- **For the Topping (Optional):**
- ¼ cup **shredded coconut** (for a tropical touch)
- ¼ cup **chopped nuts** (for added texture)
- A dusting of **powdered sugar** (for a simple finish)
This **carrot zucchini cake** is perfect for **baking enthusiasts**, **healthy dessert lovers**, or anyone looking for a **moist, flavorful cake** with a **hidden cream cheese frosting** surprise. It’s a great way to sneak in **veggies** while enjoying a **decadent treat**!
Steps
# How to Make a Hidden Frosting Carrot Zucchini Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're looking for a moist, flavorful, and visually stunning dessert, this **hidden frosting carrot zucchini cake** is the perfect choice. Combining the natural sweetness of carrots and zucchini with a surprise layer of creamy frosting, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create this **baked good** that’s perfect for any occasion.
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## **Ingredients**
### For the Cake:
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
### For the Hidden Frosting Layer:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
### For the Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Additional frosting for decoration
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat and Prepare**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Grease a **9x13-inch baking pan** or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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### **Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables**
1. Grate the carrots and zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
2. Squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This ensures the cake stays moist but not soggy.
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### **Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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### **Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients**
1. In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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### **Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
2. Fold in the grated carrots and zucchini until evenly distributed.
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### **Step 6: Prepare the Hidden Frosting Layer**
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and lump-free.
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### **Step 7: Assemble the Cake**
1. Pour **half of the cake batter** into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Carefully spread the cream cheese frosting over the batter, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent mixing.
3. Gently pour the remaining cake batter over the frosting layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
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### **Step 8: Bake the Cake**
1. Bake in the preheated oven for **35-40 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
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### **Step 9: Decorate and Serve**
1. Optionally, frost the top of the cake with additional cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
2. Slice and serve, revealing the **hidden frosting layer** inside!
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## **Tips for Success**
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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This **hidden frosting carrot zucchini cake** is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the moist, flavorful layers with a creamy surprise inside!