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I wasn’t aware that vegetables were verboten in Broward county, the region of Florida that spans Fort Lauderdale to Miami, but after staying here for a week, I can assure you that this is so. In fact by the dagger-eyed looks I was given every time I mentioned the word “vegetarian” in a dining establishment, I have begun to think that, rather than merely being culturally taboo, eating produce for pleasure might even be illegal here.

Being vegan, well, I shudder to think of what the consequences of THAT might be.

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The.Boy. has been quite gracious about stopping into twenty restaurants (or more) each time hunger strikes until we find one that is Joanne-appropriate, and we’ve been having quite a lovely time otherwise.

Even so, I am having at least five pounds of kale delivered to my door to greet me upon my return home.

You think I’m kidding? Just wait until you see my posts next week.

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It seems that the only time anything of the earth is allowed to be ingested in this region of the country is in dessert form. So I bring you this pound cake.

It may be dotted with flecks of green but don’t let them fool you, this cake is anything but health food. It is rich, entirely dreamy and, most importantly, smothered in cream cheese frosting.

Dare I say, even a southern Floridian would approve.

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Zucchini Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Makes 1 bundt cake, adapted from The Joy The Baker Cookbook

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 8 oz lowfat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 2 cups shredded zucchini

For the brown sugar cream cheese frosting:

  • 8 oz lowfat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp molasses
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Place a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 350.  Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.  Set aside.
  3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together 8 oz lowfat cream cheese and the 2 cups sugar on medium speed for about 2 minutes or until well mixed.  Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 1 minute between each addition. Mix in the vanilla.  With the mixer on low speed, pour in the melted butter. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes or until super smooth.
  4. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add all the flour.  Mix until just incorporated.  Remove the bowl from the mixer and use a spatula to fold in the zucchini.  The batter will be thick. In a major way.
  5. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.  Allow to cool for 20 minutes, then turn onto a wire rack to cool completely.  When cooled, frost with brown sugar cream cheese frosting.

For the brown sugar cream cheese frosting:

  1. Place the cream cheese in the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with a paddle and beat for 1 minute.  Scrape down the sides of the bowl.  Add the butter.  Beat on medium speed for 1 minute until the two are well combined.
  2. Add the brown sugar and molasses to the cream cheese mix and beat on medium speed for 30 seconds.  Turn the mixer on low and add the salt and confectioner’s sugar, followed by the vanilla. Beat until almost incorporated.  Scrape down the bowl.  Mix again until all of the sugar is incorporated.
  3. Spread immediately onto the bundt cake.

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You are reading this post on Eats Well With Others at https://joanne-eatswellwithothers.com. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to the author and or owner of Eats Well With Others. All rights reserved by Joanne Bruno.
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98 Responses to Zucchini Cream Cheese Bundt Cake

  1. Love baking with zucchini! And I’m pretty sure I could eat this brown sugar cream cheese frosting by the bowl full….

  2. I have been dying to try this cake ahh!

    Can’t believe how hard it is to find vegetarian food, I don’t remember that being such an issue in south florida!

  3. love2dine says:

    that sure looks delicious i must try that. especially with the cream cheese.

  4. bellini says:

    Ha. Ha> I think it would be like going to the province of Alberta and being a vegetarian. I remember bcd in the 80’s when the singer KD Lang who was Alberta’s darling announced use was a vegetarian. Did she have some Alberta cattle ranchers in arms!

  5. Beth says:

    This cake looks so great, I almost had to lay my head down after I saw the picture. I’ve just found another use for all that zucchini, and it’s now at the top of my list!

  6. Barbara says:

    Trust me, you weren’t looking in the right places! 🙂 Lots of vegan offerings in my area. And the streets and sidewalks are loaded with people exercising….all ages. It’s amazing. We’ve very health-conscious.
    Of course, you could always keep to desserts! This one looks delicious.

  7. london bakes says:

    This cake looks like everything you want in a cake.

  8. Kim says:

    I was just paging through my JTB cookbook yesterday and I totally eyed this recipe! I bet it is incredible….that frosting is calling me.

    I hope you find some good eats while on vacation. Surely there have to be some good veggie establishments down there.

  9. Simply Life says:

    oooh, that bundt cake looks incredible! I can’t imagine someone who wouldn’t want to eat it!

  10. Luigi says:

    What a great use of Vegetables, in a cake! I love that idea. I was in Seattle a few weeks ago, I did think of you.

    As is customary, my life announcements are casually made here. So My wife is expecting another delivery in January. Makes my blogging resumption even more less likely. *cries*..

    Great to continue reading your blog though Joanne!! And Mari, And Kim!

  11. kelsey says:

    I have off today with nothing to do, I think I Should probably make this no?

  12. Elizabeth says:

    Omg that layer of frosting… Also, Florida, yeaah. I actually found an awesome veg cafe north of where you were, in Delray Beach. If you were close to the there I totally would have said check it out.

  13. Amy says:

    oh man, that’s rough hon. I would expect that in the Midwest, but Florida, really? So I say it just gives you an excuse to eat dessert for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I’d do it just to feel like I’m on vacation.

  14. That is one silver lining to the end of a vacation — coming back home to your veggies!! It’s not until I go away that I realize how particular I can be about food! Anyway – I love that you incorporated zuchs into this beautiful bunt cake!

  15. Your bundt cake looks amazing! I have to make this with my mini bundt pan!!! Have a great weekend!!

  16. Did you say smothered in cream cheese? Then I want it. Hope you had a blast on vacation! I just got back too and still haven’t quite adjusted to my normal life again hehe

  17. Danielle says:

    This looks so good and I think I may be good with a spoon and just the frosting – it all sounds delish!

  18. Jenna says:

    Mmmm! I’ve promised my husband a cake when we move to our new apartment in a couple weeks (once we’re all set up there, of course–I can’t bake in chaos!). This one is now in the running!

  19. momgateway says:

    Yumm, It amazes me how you still find time to be so creative in the kitchen!!

  20. I want you to know that if I so choose to make this cream cheese frosting, there is no going back. I’ll never get to stop eating it. It’s probably a risk I am willing to take though.

  21. Megan says:

    Love zucchini cakes. This one sounds wonderful, especially with that frosting.

  22. Victoria says:

    Yes! Love zucchini cake but never tried it with cream cheese frosting. Looks fantastic. Glad you are having a nice trip and finding Joanne-appropriate food wherever you go.

  23. Wow, Joanne, this is simply stunning!

  24. Jenna Bordelon says:

    Hi Joanne!

    I’m not sure if you read all of these comments, but I just started following you about a month ago and I love your recipes! While playing on Pintrest your blog caught my eye – as I am a fellow Medical Student (just started 2nd year), foodie, runner, vegetarian, 23 y/o, etc. And I admire the fact that you have time to blog as well! I’m down here studying at the University of Miami, so while I’ve been enjoying your NYC posts, this one particularly caught my eye!
    Any who, I’d love to chat sometime if you ever get the chance. Hope you have fun in Sofla!

    -Jenna

  25. I love the addition of cream cheese to this…how lovely!!

    Wishing you a wonderful weekend, my friend!!!

  26. My vegetarian boyfriend and I spent some time in Miami last year and he basically survived on fried plantains. So your situation sounds about right!

    Also, beautiful cake!

  27. The photos are sensational. AS great way to utilize that excess zucchini you are growing/ or receiving from well-meaning friends. Stunningly good cake, and oy, that frosting.

  28. Natalie says:

    That frosting looks to die for! I haven’t eaten zucchini in dessert form yet this summer and now I’m thinking I’m going to have to steal a few zucchinis from my parents garden and make this asap! Hope you’re having a great time in Florida despite the lack of vegetables!

  29. Well, that does surprise me about that area of Florida. I thought they tended to be healthier. But they are part of the South. We like our meat down here. Most of it we killed or caught ourselves and then deep fried. 🙂

    I can just imagine zucchini cake and cream cheese frosting going together so well. YUM!

  30. Eileen says:

    No vegetarian food at all? EEK. I eat meat and I’d still be pretty put out! I hope you at least found a good supermarket with hummus and baby carrots for supplemental dinner. 🙂 And you know about the veg restaurant guides on happycow.net, vegdining,com, and vegguide.org, right?

  31. Pierce says:

    Huh….things sure are different from when I lived in Broward county. I lived in Hollywood, but that was a lonnnnnnnng time ago! Wish you were in Tallahassee area in north Fl. That’s where I am…and Velva too of Tomatoes on the Vine 🙂

    Hope you have a great time. Lovely cake here and that icing (kissing noises) YUM!

  32. Geni says:

    Is not the thickest most delicious looking slab of cream cheese frosting atop your cake? YUMMY! So sad that you have had so much trouble finding vegetarian fare. In So. Cal, vegetarian options are endless. I am lucky!

  33. Veggies in a cake? Yes please! And there’s nothing taboo about being vegetarian! In fact, I’m jealous of your willpower and self-control!

  34. Great looking cake. Cake and vegetables, I would keep the vegetables a secret in my house. Good luck in your restaurant quest.

  35. Mmmmmm…that looks FANTASTIC!! I want a big, fat slice pronto.

  36. Gloria says:

    Look absolutely delicious I love the frosting look amazing:)

  37. Mmm this looks so moist and delicious! I can’t imagine being without my beloved veg for any amount of time, I totally empathise with you!

  38. Christine says:

    Oh my…. This is to die for! Can’t wait till we’re out of the summer zone and I can turn the oven on again! 🙂 Funny about the veggies and Florida, I’d have thought it’d be like California…veggie-crazy!

  39. Candace says:

    I love veggies including zucchini; but my favorite way to have said veggies is inside of cake. And a cake as beautiful and delicious as that one would be absolutely perfect! This looks insanely delicious, Joanne. I wish I had a piece of that right this minute. Yum!

  40. SnoWhite says:

    This looks like a cake that my mom makes — our family favorite. We use applesauce rather than the cream cheese, and add raisins. Yum. Love the cream cheese frosting on this good one!

  41. Blond Duck says:

    You astound me with your creativity with zucchini!

  42. That looks mighty good…so funny about not eating anything green on that side of the state! You were just on the wrong side, come visit me! 🙂

  43. Kari says:

    This looks absolutely incredible – definitely one of the best zucchini cakes I’ve ever seen. Hopefully it helps counter the vegetable withdrawal too!

  44. That Girl says:

    There are vegetables in the south! They’re just hidden under cream sauces.

  45. This bundt cake looks absolutely gorgeous! Fine and moist crumb with perfect icing…what more could one ask for!

  46. Tessa says:

    This cake looks amazing. Now I just need to devise a plan for the rest of it because I’m sure I could eat the entire thing myself!

  47. Saguna says:

    Yep, every time I travel outside major cities I get the feeling it’s carnivore territory. This lush-looking zucchini cake (the English call ’em courgettes but I still don’t understand why) looks like it could convert even the staunchest meat and potatoes lover to the green stuff. Hah, kale indeed…looking forward to it!

  48. Guru Uru says:

    This looks fantastically moist 😀

    Cheers
    CCU

  49. Tandy says:

    As an ex vegetarian I can so relate to this situation 🙂

  50. Johanna GGG says:

    Holidays are meant to be time to relax and let others cook for us but sometimes it just seems easier to cook for yourself – enjoy your kale when you arrive home 🙂 And please send a slice of this cake

  51. MS3 says:

    MMMM I love cooking with zuchinni! And I love cream cheese on everything….

  52. Kathy says:

    This cake looks heavenly, Joanne…so moist and beautiful!! Love the brown sugar frosting!!

  53. I’ve found a similar recipe today. Amazing connection of flavors in a cake 🙂

  54. You have opened my eyes with using zucchini! This cake looks healthy no matter what you say, but I still want to take a huge bite out of it. 😀

  55. I freaking love zucchini cakes. Who thought of the awesomeness of adding zucchini to baked goods?! So good.

  56. Lori says:

    No veggies? For shame! Are there any oranges or grapefruits to get you through? 😉 This cake sounds amazing, and I currently have more zucchini than I know what to do with. (Not trying to rub that in though, given your current situation!)

  57. Mary says:

    Sorry you are having such a hard time to find appropriate things to eat. The cake sounds delicious and looks inviting. Have a great day. Blessings…Mary

  58. Jenn Kendall says:

    i just picked up some zucchini. and now i need to make this. looks sooooooo good!

  59. This looks sooooo good, I love the thick layer of frosting on it!

  60. i love the green specks, healthy or unhealthy i love it… especially the cream cheese addition.

    sorry about the non-success of finding vegetarian food… but also good to know that you’re having a good time with the boy! 🙂

  61. I lived in FL for 6 years and i could attest to what you just said. I’m not vegan tho but we had a friend who was vegan and when she moved to CA from FL she thought she was “home” haha.

    Happy weekend Joanne,
    malou

  62. Hotly Spiced says:

    I was just thinking about making a zucchini cake but in a loaf tin, not a bundt. And certainly not sparing the cream cheese frosting! Lovely looking zucchini bundt Joanne xx

  63. Reeni says:

    Zucchini + cake is music to my ears! This is delectable! I’m glad you have someone who understands and is helping you find the proper sustenance! I have relatives in Florida who don’t like veggies and do things like save their bacon grease to fry food.

  64. Raina says:

    Wonderful cake! Love everything about it:)

  65. Donna says:

    I have tasted many a zucchini cake bite – all for research, natch – but now I must add yours to my Must Try list!

  66. Roz says:

    I used to think that my zucchini cake recipe (given to me from a friend) was the absolute best . . . but you’ve got me matched and topped I think from reading the recipe. I must try this with all of the zukes coming from the garden Joanne. And that icing . . . pour it down my mouth without the cake even!!!!

  67. Chaya says:

    I haven’t baked with zucchini in a while. This is my inspiration.

  68. Velva says:

    I grew up in south Florida…Although your vegetarian tastes may not have been satisfied, I hope you guys had a great time.

    I am looking forward to seeing what you can do with 5-lbs of kale. I grew kale for the first time this past fall and it was the gift that kept on giving (laughing). I ran out of ideas. Looking to see what you do, to stock some fresh ideas this fall.

    Velva

  69. Marina says:

    I can’t never have too much zucchini recipes 🙂

  70. Faith says:

    Haha, that’s too funny! Hope you guys are having fun despite the veggie-averse condiditons. This cake is calling my name!

  71. Catherine says:

    Dear Joanne, I bet this is delicious! A great way to have your cake and veggies too! Blessings my dear, your friend, Catherine xo

  72. I love baking with veggies… carrot cake, zucchini bread, butternut squash muffins… they’re all magical. Maybe one day we can share a slice of this beautiful bundt cake 🙂

  73. Kim says:

    Every time I come here I want to eat up my computer screen!! I do not know HOW you find the time in medical school to do all of this. You rock.

  74. teresa says:

    i’m going to go ahead and say that this is a veggie so that i don’t have to feel bad eating as much as i want. i LOVE zucchini baked goods, YUM!

  75. Carolyn Jung says:

    LOL I lived in Broward County for four years. At times, coleslaw was the only way to get some veggies at a restaurant. How sad is that?

  76. daphne says:

    a friend of mine who recently travelled to US said she NYC was great for vegetarians but it was harder in other states- someone offered her seafood as an option!
    You managed to squeeze in zucchini in a cake! and cream cheese! any way to get my veges in is a good thing I say!

  77. Erica says:

    The cake looks moist and delicious! I saw the recipe when we had the event for her book!!!

  78. elly says:

    Sigh. Cream cheese frosting. I can eat it on anything. Or, you know, on its own. This cake looks awesome. I really need to dust off my bundt pan that I’ve used like…once.

  79. Pam says:

    Drool worthy! Looking forward to the kale recipes :). Have fun with The.Boy.

  80. fab cake and love that part of the country have fun

  81. Thanks to the wedding, I now own a bundt cake. And thanks to summer, I have zucchini. And thanks to you, I have this recipe!!

  82. Lora says:

    Absolutely gorgeous and perfect use of zucchini!

  83. Hope all this vegetable-shunning makes the kale taste extra-good 🙂 Love a bundt cake, zucchinis aren’t in season at the moment here but will keep this in mind for when they are…

  84. Oooh, I love zucchini bread so this cake has got to be awesome! Especially with cream cheese frosting(ok, I’m not gonna lie, the frosting would be my favorite part – I can’t resist cream cheese frosting!)

  85. Julie says:

    I love all things zucchini, add pound cake, cream cheese frosting…heaven!

  86. Deborah says:

    I would think that with the need to be bikini ready all of the time, Florida would be very veggie friendly. Go figure!

    But this cake looks amazing. Great way to use up zucchini!!

  87. grace says:

    that is one THICK layer of frosting, and i appreciate it. stellar zuke use, joanne. 🙂

  88. Kevin says:

    This is a great way to enjoy some zucchini!

  89. I’ve missed so much during my little summer hiatus! This one really looks outstanding, Joanne. Oh my!

  90. Shannon says:

    yum. this sounds pretty perfect, especially with that cream cheese icing 🙂

  91. […] One year ago…Zucchini Cream Cheese Pound Cake […]

  92. Joanne wikoff says:

    I don’t have a bundt pan threw it out about 15 years ago, what size pan would you suggest to use for this recipe if you don’t have a bundt pan?

  93. Alicia says:

    Does this bunt cake need to be refrigerated?

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