This cake is incredibly moist and chocolatey, with a rich chocolate fudge frosting that makes it irresistible. You’d never guess it’s packed with courgette (zucchini), but it adds amazing moisture without any noticeable vegetable taste—just like carrot cake!
Chocolate Courgette Cake
This Chocolate Courgette Cake is a rich, moist dessert that’s smothered in creamy chocolate fudge frosting. The courgette adds incredible moisture, making this cake dense yet light, with a deep chocolate flavor that will have you coming back for more.
What You’ll Love About Chocolate Courgette Cake
The Chocolate Courgette Cake is one of those delightful surprises that never fails to impress. It’s incredibly rich and moist, with a deep chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth. What makes this cake truly special is the addition of grated courgette (zucchini), which adds an amazing level of moisture and texture without a trace of vegetable flavor. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and a hidden healthy twist. Plus, the creamy chocolate fudge frosting takes this cake to the next level, making it an irresistible treat for any chocolate lover.
Perfect Occasion
This Chocolate Courgette Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions:
- Family Gatherings: Perfect for family dinners or weekend get-togethers, where the cake’s moist texture and rich flavor will be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults.
- Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any special event, this cake adds a touch of decadence to your celebration.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon treat that feels luxurious yet homey.
- Potlucks and Picnics: This cake travels well and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for sharing with friends.
Decoration Tips
Decorating this Chocolate Courgette Cake allows you to elevate its presentation while keeping things simple and elegant:
- Chocolate Shavings: Create elegant chocolate curls or shavings from a bar of dark chocolate using a vegetable peeler, and scatter them generously over the top of the cake.
- Fresh Berries: Add a burst of color and a hint of tartness by decorating the top with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries. Their vibrant colors will contrast beautifully with the dark chocolate.
- Edible Flowers: For a touch of sophistication, garnish with a few edible flowers such as violets or pansies. This is perfect for more formal occasions.
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving for a classic, simple finish that adds a bit of elegance.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts around the edges or on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the cake in a zigzag pattern for a visually striking effect.
Serve this cake on a cake stand to showcase its layers and frosting, and watch as it quickly becomes the centerpiece of your dessert table. Every slice reveals the moist, rich texture that makes this cake unforgettable. Enjoy!
Chocolate Courgette Cake
Ingredients
Chocolate Courgette Sponge:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup dairy-free buttermilk 1 cup plant-based milk + 1 tbsp vinegar
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 cup grated courgette zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup dairy-free yogurt optional for extra moisture
Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- 1 cup dairy-free butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp dairy-free milk as needed for consistency
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate Courgette Sponge:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, dairy-free buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the grated courgette (and dairy-free yogurt if using) until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the dairy-free butter until creamy.
- Sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, and beat until smooth and well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and gradually add the dairy-free milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a generous layer of chocolate fudge frosting over the top of the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Serve:
- Slice and serve this decadent Chocolate Courgette Cake.
- Enjoy the rich, moist chocolate flavor with the added bonus of hidden veggies!
Notes
Tips for Making the Best Sponge:
- Use Buttermilk: The acidity in buttermilk helps break down gluten and proteins in cakes, making them more tender. For a dairy-free alternative, add vinegar to plant-based milk.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense, tough, or deflated cakes. Mix until just combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients bond together better, creating a seamless and even texture.
- Weigh Your Ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure the best results. Follow the exact recipe.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake the cake until just done to keep it moist and tender. Avoid rushing the process.