Description
Chocolate zucchini cake is a moist, decadent dessert made with rich cocoa and tender zucchini. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion, blending chocolatey goodness with hidden veggies.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
 - 2 large eggs
 - 1 cup granulated sugar
 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
 - 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
 - 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
 
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
 - In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
 - Add the grated zucchini to the wet ingredients and mix well. There’s no need to squeeze out the moisture from the zucchini; it will keep the cake moist.
 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
 - If using, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts.
 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
 - Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
 - Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
 - Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or top with frosting if desired.
 
Notes
- For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding an extra 1/4 cup of cocoa powder.
 - Frozen zucchini works fine, just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture.
 - This cake gets even better the next day as the flavors meld.
 - For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax or chia eggs and use a plant-based oil.
 
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
 - Category: Dessert, Snack
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
 - Calories: 230
 - Sugar: 22g
 - Sodium: 160mg
 - Fat: 12g
 - Saturated Fat: 1g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 9g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 30g
 - Fiber: 3g
 - Protein: 3g
 - Cholesterol: 25mg