📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure the rack is in the center position.
2. Prepare the zucchini: Wash and trim the ends of your zucchini. Shred the zucchini using a box grater. No need to peel it!
3. Remove excess moisture: Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy bake. Get your arms working, it's more important than you think!
4. Make the zucchini base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should smell amazing!
5. Prepare the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cold butter (cut into small cubes), and chopped pecans (if using).
6. Cut in the butter: Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs. Alternatively, pulse the ingredients in a food processor until the desired consistency is achieved. Honestly, my fingers are usually too warm for this, so I just use a food processor!
7. Assemble the bake: Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
8. Add the crumble topping: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the zucchini mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the zucchini mixture is bubbling around the edges. I like to give it a little shake to see if it's cooked. If it's still very liquid, then it probably needs a little bit longer.
10. Cool: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the zucchini mixture to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
11. Serve: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. This is optional, but it does make it extra tasty!