Chocolate Zucchini Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

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If you’re looking for a delicious and moist cake that packs a serious chocolate punch, you’ve come to the right place! Chocolate zucchini cake is not only rich and tasty but also a sneaky way to get in some veggies.

Trust me, no one will ever guess there’s zucchini hiding in this delightfully decadent treat.

And the cream cheese frosting? Well, that’s just the cherry on top! Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This chocolate zucchini cake is a great way to use up those extra zucchinis you might have lying around.

It’s super easy to make and is perfect for all occasions – from birthdays to casual afternoons with friends.

The best part? It’s incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the zucchini which not only adds moisture but also enhances the cake’s texture without making it feel dense.

Then, there’s the luscious cream cheese frosting that complements the chocolate perfectly.

I promise, every bite will have you reaching for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch process)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 medium zucchini (170 g), grated and squeezed dry (about 2 cups or 6 oz)

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How To Make Chocolate Zucchini Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prep Your Zucchini

Start by grating the zucchini.

You’ll want to use a box grater or a food processor to get about two cups of grated zucchini.

Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

This step is crucial to keep the cake from becoming soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.

This will help ensure that your dry ingredients are well-distributed and make for a uniform batter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and vegetable oil.

Mix them together until well blended.

Then, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla extract until just combined.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Fold in the grated zucchini until evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Be sure to check it around the 25-minute mark as baking times may vary.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter.

Beat these together until creamy and smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined.

Add the milk and vanilla extract, and beat until light and fluffy.

Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.

You can even slice the cake in half and add frosting in between layers for extra deliciousness.

Make it as pretty as you like by using a spatula or a piping bag.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini! Too much moisture can lead to a soggy cake.
• For an extra chocolatey flavor, use a high-quality cocoa powder.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting by adding more or less powdered sugar to your taste.

Variations and Customizations

• Add some chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence!
• Swap out half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
• Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
• For a nutty flavor, fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare, I know!), you can store the chocolate zucchini cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Make sure to separate layers of cake with parchment paper if stacking them.

This will prevent the frosting from smudging.

You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months.

Just make sure it’s well wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container.

Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy!

FAQ

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw it and drain off any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.

Is there a dairy-free option for the cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut oil instead of regular cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free frosting that’s just as delicious.

Can I make this cake into cupcakes?

Yes, you can! Just fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes at the same temperature.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or applesauce if you prefer a healthier option.

Conclusion

There you have it! This Chocolate Zucchini Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that everyone will love.

The combination of moist cake and rich frosting is simply irresistible.

Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies without anyone the wiser.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress.

Get your ingredients ready and enjoy this deliciously decadent dessert! Happy baking!

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