Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe – Delicious Dessert

Looking for a delicious dessert that’s both indulgent and healthier? This Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe is the perfect solution!

Combining rich chocolate flavor with the moisture of zucchini, this cake is a hidden veggie treat that’s both gluten-free and irresistibly moist.

Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just want to try something new, this easy-to-make cake will satisfy your chocolate cravings without compromising on taste.

Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations, this Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a decadent dessert with a healthy twist.

Let’s dive into this simple and scrumptious recipe!

How To Prepare Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe?

Recipe Overview

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Course: Dessert, Snack
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Cuisine: American
  • Yield: 12 servings

Kitchen Utensils

Before you get started, gather these kitchen essentials to make your baking experience smoother:

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Whisk
  • Grater (for zucchini)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×9-inch square baking pan (or similar)
  • Parchment paper (optional, but helpful for easy removal)
  • Spatula or spoon for mixing

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 3 ½ cups shredded zucchini (about 3 medium zucchinis)
  • 2 ¼ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (ensure it contains xanthan gum, or add a pinch if needed)
  • 1 ½ cups cocoa powder
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar (or coconut sugar/maple syrup for a less refined option)
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ¾ cup olive oil (or another neutral oil)
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 ½ tsp espresso powder
  • 150 grams light brown sugar
  • ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • ¾ cup chocolate chips (optional but recommended for extra chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

  • 7 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons sour cream
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup milk
  • 4 ½ cups powdered sugar, divided
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

How to Make Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

1. Prepare Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan (or line it with parchment paper).

2. Prepare the zucchini:

Shred the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out excess moisture.

3. Mix the dry ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cardamom, and espresso powder.

4. Mix the wet ingredients:

In another bowl, beat the eggs, egg yolks, olive oil, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and milk until smooth.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the shredded zucchini and chocolate chips (if using).

6. Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.

7. Prepare the frosting:

Beat the softened butter and sour cream in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and salt, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

8. Frost the cake:

Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting over the top. Decorate with extra chocolate chips if desired.

9. Serve and enjoy!

Slice and enjoy your delicious, gluten-free chocolate zucchini cake!

Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe
Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

Special Notes

1. Zucchini Tip: If you want a lighter cake, make sure to remove as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. The drier the zucchini, the less liquid it will contribute to the batter.

2. Flour: I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that already contains xanthan gum. If yours doesn’t, you can add about 1/4 tsp of xanthan gum to help with texture.

3. Dairy-Free Option: To make this cake fully dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

4. Storage: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!

Health Benefits Information

This Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe offers several health benefits. Zucchini adds fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full longer.

The cocoa powder provides antioxidants that protect cells and support heart health. With a lower glycemic index compared to traditional cakes, it’s gentler on blood sugar levels, making it a better option for those managing blood sugar.

Additionally, zucchini contributes vitamins A and C, along with potassium and magnesium, essential for immune health and skin vitality. It’s completely gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Amazing Decorate Ideas

1. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

Create a simple chocolate ganache by melting equal parts of dark chocolate and heavy cream. Pour the ganache over the top of the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a rich and glossy finish. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast.

2. Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries

Top your cake with a fluffy layer of whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. This adds a light, refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate cake.

3. Chopped Nuts and Chocolate Chips

For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds on top of the cake. Add a few extra chocolate chips or even drizzle some melted chocolate to tie everything together.

4. Powdered Sugar Dusting

For a simple yet elegant finish, lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder using a fine sieve. You can also use a stencil to create fun shapes or patterns on top.

5. Coconut Flakes and Shaved Chocolate

For a tropical twist, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the cake. Finish with some shaved chocolate or chocolate curls for a decorative and decadent look.

Conclusion

This Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe is a perfect blend of indulgence and health. It’s rich, moist, and full of chocolatey goodness while offering added nutritional benefits like fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.

Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just looking for a healthier dessert, this Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe hits all the right notes. It’s easy to make, surprisingly light, and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed at how delicious and nutritious this simple treat can be!

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Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

Luna
This Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake is a moist, rich dessert made with grated zucchini, gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, and a blend of sweeteners. The zucchini adds moisture without compromising texture. It's flavored with vanilla and a pinch of cinnamon, offering a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional chocolate cake recipes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Whisk
  • Grater (for zucchini)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×9-inch square baking pan (or similar)
  • Parchment paper (optional, but helpful for easy removal)
  • Spatula or spoon for mixing

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 3 ½ cups shredded zucchini about 3 medium zucchinis
  • 2 ¼ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour ensure it contains xanthan gum, or add a pinch if needed
  • 1 ½ cups cocoa powder
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar or coconut sugar/maple syrup for a less refined option
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ¾ cup olive oil or another neutral oil
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 ½ tsp espresso powder
  • 150 grams light brown sugar
  • ¾ cup milk dairy or non-dairy
  • ¾ cup chocolate chips optional but recommended for extra chocolate flavor

For the Chocolate Frosting:

  • 7 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 3 tablespoons sour cream
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup milk
  • 4 ½ cups powdered sugar divided
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions
 

Prepare Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan (or line it with parchment paper).

Prepare the zucchini:

  • Shred the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out excess moisture.

Mix the dry ingredients:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cardamom, and espresso powder.

Mix the wet ingredients:

  • In another bowl, beat the eggs, egg yolks, olive oil, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and milk until smooth.

Combine wet and dry ingredients:

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the shredded zucchini and chocolate chips (if using).

Bake:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.

Prepare the frosting:

  • Beat the softened butter and sour cream in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and salt, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

Frost the cake:

  • Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting over the top. Decorate with extra chocolate chips if desired.

Serve and enjoy!

  • Slice and enjoy your delicious, gluten-free chocolate zucchini cake!

Notes

1. Zucchini Tip: If you want a lighter cake, make sure to remove as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. The drier the zucchini, the less liquid it will contribute to the batter.
2. Flour: I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that already contains xanthan gum. If yours doesn’t, you can add about 1/4 tsp of xanthan gum to help with texture.
3. Dairy-Free Option: To make this cake fully dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
4. Storage: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
Keyword Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe

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