Zucchini Carrot Treat (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1/2 teaspoon pistachio extract (optional).
02 - 4 eggs.
03 - 2 cups shredded zucchini, well-drained.
04 - 1 cup oil made for cooking, like canola.
05 - 3/4 cup white sugar.
06 - 1/2 teaspoon allspice.
07 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg spice.
08 - 1 cup brown sugar (lightly packed).
09 - 8 tablespoons softened butter.
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla (extract).
11 - 1 orange for its zest.
12 - 2 cups finely shredded carrots.
13 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
14 - 1 teaspoon baking soda powder.
15 - 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder.
16 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
17 - 16 oz softened cream cheese.
18 - 4 cups powdered sugar for sweetness.
19 - Chopped pistachios for decorating.
20 - 2 cups gluten-free flour, measured precisely.
21 - 1 cup finely chopped pistachio nuts.
22 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.

# Instructions:

01 - Turn your oven on to 350°F and get your pans ready by spraying them lightly.
02 - Remove as much liquid as you can from the zucchini using a cheesecloth or strainer.
03 - Mix the eggs, oils, sugars, orange zest, and vanilla together for a few minutes at high speed.
04 - In a separate bowl, stir together the dry ingredients.
05 - Gently add the dry mixture into the wet stuff. Don't overmix—it should just come together. Stir in the carrots and zucchini gently.
06 - Pop the batter in for about 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn't overbake.
07 - Blend together everything for the frosting until it's smooth, then spread it over the cake once cooled. Sprinkle with pistachios for a nice touch.

# Notes:

01 - Use extracts of better quality for richer flavors.
02 - Switch out gluten-free flour for regular if needed.
03 - Spend time draining zucchini so the batter doesn't get too wet.
04 - Bake the layers ahead if you're short on time.
05 - Fits two 8-inch round pans or a 9x13 pan.
06 - Perfect for using up fresh garden veggies.