Zucchini Bundt Cake is the kind of homemade dessert that feels cozy, practical, and special all at once. It bakes up tender, lightly spiced, and sweet enough for dessert without feeling heavy. Because shredded zucchini melts right into the batter, every slice stays soft and moist. Then, the cinnamon glaze drips over the ridges of the cake and adds a sweet bakery-style finish. This Cinnamon glaze cake works beautifully for summer gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or simple weekend baking when you want a dependable cake that serves a crowd.
Story
Every summer, when zucchini starts piling up from the garden or farmers market, I look for easy ways to bake with it. Zucchini Bundt Cake has become one of my favorite answers because it turns simple pantry staples into a dessert that tastes rich, warm, and homemade. Although zucchini may sound unusual in cake, it works like a secret moisture booster. The shreds soften as the cake bakes, so you get a tender crumb without a vegetable flavor. This Zucchini Bundt Cake also looks beautiful with very little decorating work, thanks to the shape of the Bundt pan. Plus, the cinnamon glaze makes each slice feel extra special. When you need a Moist bundt cake that uses Fresh garden zucchini, this Zucchini Bundt Cake fits the moment perfectly. It is also a smart Zucchini dessert recipe for anyone who wants to bake something easy, fragrant, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
For the cake, you will need 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 3/4 cup vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini. For the cinnamon glaze, you will need 3 cups powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup milk. Use freshly shredded zucchini for the best texture, and do not peel it because the tender green skin blends into the cake and adds color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This Zucchini Bundt Cake comes together with a simple mixing method, so you do not need special baking skills. First, heat the oven to 325 degrees F. Then, coat a 12-cup Bundt pan very well with baking spray, making sure you reach every ridge and curve. Next, mix the wet ingredients, add the dry ingredients, fold in the zucchini, and bake until the cake springs back lightly in the center. After the cake cools, whisk the glaze until smooth and drizzle it over the top.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by shredding the zucchini on the large holes of a box grater. After that, lightly blot it with paper towels only if it seems very watery. You want moisture in the cake, so do not squeeze it completely dry. Then, measure the flour carefully by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Next, gather the cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt so the batter comes together quickly. Finally, prepare the Bundt pan before mixing the batter because the cake should go into the oven soon after the leavening ingredients meet the wet mixture.
Cooking Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and blended. Then, add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Beat the batter for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed. Next, fold in the shredded zucchini with a spatula until it spreads evenly through the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan for 5 minutes, then invert it onto a cake plate and cool completely. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled cake.
Tips for Perfect Results
For the best Zucchini Bundt Cake, grease the pan generously and give the cake enough time to cool before glazing. Also, avoid packing flour into the measuring cup because too much flour can make the crumb dense. Since zucchini varies in moisture, check the texture before adding it. If it drips water, blot it lightly. However, keep some moisture because that is what gives the cake its soft bite. Finally, let the cake cool fully before adding the glaze, since warm cake will melt the glaze too quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake with Zucchini Bundt Cake is under-greasing the Bundt pan. Because Bundt pans have deep curves, the cake can stick if you miss a spot. Another mistake is removing the cake too late or too early. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then turn it out while the pan still feels warm. Also, do not overmix after adding the zucchini. Stir just until combined, since too much mixing can make the cake tough. Finally, do not glaze the cake while warm, or the cinnamon glaze will slide off instead of setting nicely.
Pro Tips for Better Flavor
For deeper flavor, use fresh cinnamon and check that your baking powder and baking soda still work well. You can also add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the batter for a softer, bakery-style aroma. Additionally, a pinch of nutmeg pairs nicely with the cinnamon if you like a warmer spice profile. For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time. For a thinner drizzle, add milk one teaspoon at a time. Because this Zucchini Bundt Cake has a simple flavor base, small details make a big difference.
Serving and Storage
Serve Zucchini Bundt Cake at room temperature after the glaze sets slightly. It slices cleanly with a sharp serrated knife and pairs well with coffee, tea, milk, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Since the cake makes 16 servings, it works well for parties, bake sales, brunch tables, and family desserts. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for short-term serving, or refrigerate them if your kitchen feels warm. The cake keeps its soft texture well because the zucchini helps lock in moisture.
How to Serve
Place the Zucchini Bundt Cake on a cake stand or large platter, then drizzle any extra glaze into the center or over individual slices. For a casual dessert, serve it plain with coffee. For a more dressed-up plate, add whipped cream, toasted pecans, or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also dust the top with a little extra cinnamon right before serving. Because the cake has a warm spice flavor, it fits both summer garden meals and fall dessert tables.

How to Store Leftovers
Cover leftover Zucchini Bundt Cake tightly with plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Before serving refrigerated slices, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes so the crumb softens again. You can also freeze unglazed slices for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice well, freeze, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Add fresh glaze after thawing for the best finish.
Conclusion
Zucchini Bundt Cake is a simple, reliable dessert that turns everyday ingredients into a beautiful homemade cake. The zucchini keeps every slice tender, while the cinnamon glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you bake it to use garden zucchini or bring it to a gathering, this cake delivers comfort, flavor, and a pretty presentation with very little fuss.
Discover more delicious recipes by following me on Facebook and Pinterest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to peel zucchini before baking it into cake?
No, you do not need to peel zucchini before making Zucchini Bundt Cake. The skin is tender, mild, and thin, so it softens during baking. It also adds tiny green flecks that make the cake look fresh and homemade. Just wash the zucchini well, trim the ends, and shred it with a box grater or food processor.
Should I squeeze the moisture out of shredded zucchini?
Only squeeze or blot the zucchini if it looks extremely wet. For this Zucchini Bundt Cake, the moisture helps create a soft crumb, so you do not want to remove all of it. If liquid pools in the bowl after shredding, press the zucchini gently with paper towels. Otherwise, add it directly to the batter.
Can I make Zucchini Bundt Cake ahead of time?
Yes, Zucchini Bundt Cake works well as a make-ahead dessert. Bake the cake one day in advance, cool it completely, and cover it tightly. For the freshest look, add the cinnamon glaze the day you plan to serve it. You can also freeze the cake without glaze, then thaw and decorate it later.
Print
Zucchini Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Super moist Zucchini Bundt Cake with warm cinnamon flavor and a sweet cinnamon glaze. This easy dessert uses shredded zucchini for a tender crumb and serves a crowd beautifully.
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini
- For the glaze:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Spray a 12-cup Bundt pan thoroughly with baking spray and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and blended.
- Add flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Fold in shredded zucchini until evenly mixed into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 5 minutes, then invert it onto a cake plate and cool completely.
- Whisk powdered sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the cooled cake, letting extra glaze fall into the center.
- Slice and serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Use the large holes of a box grater to shred zucchini.
- Do not peel the zucchini before shredding.
- Blot very wet zucchini lightly, but do not squeeze it completely dry.
- Cool the cake completely before adding glaze.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze unglazed slices for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 42
- Sodium: 170
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 63
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 35