Delicious chocolate zucchini cake recipe you’ll love
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Oct 2025
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This delightful chocolate zucchini cake is a wonderfully moist vegetarian treat that artfully hides the goodness of grated courgette within its rich, chocolatey layers. Combining the earthy flavours of courgette with unsweetened cocoa and a hint of vanilla, this cake is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while still offering a nutritious twist. The addition of walnuts adds a lovely crunch, making each slice a true indulgence for chocolate lovers.
Ideal for family gatherings or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this cake is both easy to make and incredibly comforting. With the use of soured cream, it remains tender and luscious, ensuring that each bite is as satisfying as the last. Serve it dusted with a light sprinkle of icing sugar or enjoy a slice warm with a dollop of cream for a comforting dessert that everyone will appreciate.
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Ingredients for Chocolate zucchini cake
280 g plain flour, sifted
50 g unsweetened cocoa powder
5 ml baking soda
5 ml salt
350 g caster sugar
113 g unsalted butter, softened
120 ml vegetable oil
2 large eggs
5 ml vanilla extract
120 ml soured cream
300 g courgette, grated, unpeeled
170 g semisweet chocolate chips
90 g chopped walnuts
How to make Chocolate zucchini cake
Preheat the oven to 160°C (fan) or 170°C (conventional).
Grease and flour a 33 x 23 x 5 cm baking tray.
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl.
In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, butter, and oil until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, making three additions of each.
Fold in the grated zucchini until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips and nuts evenly over the top.
Bake the cake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the tray.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Oct 2025 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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