Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Cake
Our Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Cake recipe is a game-changer, delivering moist, chocolatey goodness in every bite. It’s a guilt-free treat to satisfy your sweet tooth and sneak in some veggies, too! Be sure to add some whipped vegan chocolate ganache frosting on top.
It might sound unconventional, but trust me, the addition of zucchini to this cake is pure genius. It adds moisture and texture without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy anytime!
Ingredients & Substitutions
You can find the full printable recipe, including ingredient quantities, below. But first, here are some explanations of ingredients and steps to help you make this recipe perfect every time.
- Zucchini: Look for firm, medium-sized zucchini. Substitute with grated carrots for a similar texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Opt for unbleached all-purpose flour for the best results. Want your cake gluten-free? Substitute a baking-quality gluten-free flour.
- Granulated Sugar: Choose organic granulated sugar for a more natural option. Use coconut sugar as a substitute.
- Yogurt: Use plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt. You can substitute dairy-free sour cream.
- Vegetable Oil: Use a neutral-flavored oil like canola or sunflower oil. Use applesauce as a healthier alternative.
- Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips: Look for vegan chocolate chips that are free from dairy products and suitable for baking.
Buying Guide: When purchasing zucchini, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes. Organic options are available at most grocery stores, typically located in the produce section.
What Makes This Recipe Shine?
- Zucchinis are shredded and treated with salt, coaxing them to drain off excess water
- Adding vegan sour cream keeps this cake extra moist and tender
- Instant coffee is a secret ingredient for enhancing the chocolate flavor in this cake.
How to Make Chocolate Zucchini Cake
The full recipe card below describes the actual process of making this cake. But I wanted to prepare you for the delightful baking adventure you can expect when making our Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Cake recipe!
- Making the batter: As you combine the ingredients, expect a thick batter, punctuated by chocolate chips and shredded zucchini.
- Preparing to bake: Use a spatula to evenly spread the batter in the baking pan, ensuring a consistent texture throughout.
- Baking the cake: Anticipate the delightful aroma of chocolate wafting through your kitchen as the cake bakes to perfection.
- Serving and enjoying: Once cooled, topping it with whipped ganache frosting is a simple yet satisfying finishing touch. Get ready to indulge in a moist and chocolatey dessert that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious!
Reader Reviews
★★★★★
Joann
I knew this was going to be good as soon as I started mixing the sauce! Really yummy
Frosting Options
When it comes to topping off this scrumptious cake, a sprinkling of powdered sugar works just fine.
However, topping it with a luscious, creamy frosting adds an extra layer of moisture and flavor that takes this cake to the next level. Here are some favorite options:
- Vegan Chocolate Frosting: Rich, creamy, and decadently chocolatey, this frosting perfectly complements the flavors of the cake.
- Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Tangy and smooth, this frosting adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Whipped Chocolate Ganache: Dive into the light, fluffy, and irresistibly indulgent ganache frosting, a dreamy addition to your chocolate zucchini cake.
- Chocolate Avocado Frosting: Opt for a healthier twist with this rich frosting made with avocados!
For my cake, I opted for a whipped vegan ganache frosting. It’s easy to make and adds loads of flavor to every bite.
Frequently-Asked Questions
Do you peel zucchini for cake?
There’s no need to peel zucchini for cake. Simply wash, grate, and incorporate it into your batter for added moisture and texture.
Why do we put zucchini in cake?
We add zucchini to cakes and baked goods for its unique ability to enhance texture while contributing moisture and subtle flavor notes. It’s also helpful for adding nutritional value to the recipe.
Storage Tips
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Vegan Chocolate Cakes
If you love this chocolate zucchini cake recipe, you should know you have lots of delicious options! Here are some of our favorite chocolate cakes:
That’s it for the vegan chocolate zucchini cake. Enjoy!
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Vegan Chocolate Zucchini Cake
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Zucchini Cake
- 2 ½ cups coarsely shredded zucchini
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon instant coffee
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup coconut yogurt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Whipped Chocolate Ganache Frosting
- 8 oz bar semi-sweet chocolate (substitute 1 ¼ cups chocolate chips)
- 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C and prepare a 9×13 baking pan by coating it with cooking spray.
For the Zucchini Cake
- Cut off the root ends of the zucchini and use a shredder to shred. Place it on a kitchen towel and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. Let the shredded zucchini sit for 15 minutes. The salt will cause it to drain its liquids.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, starch, cocoa, baking powder, soda, coffee, and salt. Stir together.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the oil, yogurt, vinegar, and vanilla.
- Press the zucchini to remove excess lquids and use a paper towel to dry it off.
- Pour the yogurt mixture in with the flour mixture and stir to combine. Add the chocolate chips and zucchini and stir until just combined.
- Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the prepared pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Insert a tester in the middle of the cake. When it comes out clean, the cake is done. Remove from oven and set aside to cool completely before frosting.
For the Whipped Ganache Frosting
- If using a chocolate bar, chop it into chunks and place them in a bowl. Pour the milk into a pyrex measuring cup and microwave until hot (but not boiling), about 1 minute. Pour the hot milk over the chocolate and stir it gently to make sure the chocolate is coated. Place a plate and set it aside for up to 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.
- Once the chocolate melts, stir it all together. Transfer the bowl to the fridge for 30 minutes or so until the chocolate is firm but still malleable. Scoop it into a mixing bowl and mix on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- When the cake has cooled, spread with whipped ganache frosting.
- To store cake, cover and keep refrigerated. It will keep up to 5 days in the fridge.
Recommended Equipment
(The products above contain sponsored links to products we use and recommend)
The nutrition information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator and should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
This post was originally published in 2012 and was updated to include new photos, new text, and an updated recipe in 2021.
This would last a millisecond in my house. Oh my goodness!!
I’m so with you on the bananas and flannel pjs after 7! It’s a must 🙂
This cake looks so moist and delicious!
This looks delicious. But what is potato starch?
Hi Sherri! Potato Starch is sold in most health food stores, but I buy it in the health food section of our grocery store. If you can’t find it, good ol’ corn starch will work just fine. Enjoy!
Oh my goodness this looks fantastic Marly!
Thanks Miss Paula!
OK, I just made this and it really is one of the best vegan chocolate cakes I have ever had. The chickpeas and the zucchini are undetectable but lend so much rich, moist and somehow light texture. This will go in the regular rotation. Thanks Marly!
Emily in Israel
Emily – so glad you liked it! I agree that it’s surprising to find that the heaviness of chickpeas can somehow give way to such a light and moist cake. Sigh. All this talk of cake is making me hungry!
Great rules Marly! ….and gorgeous cake. 🙂
Ahh, thanks Sommer!
Great use for zucchini, yum!
Ah, thanks Tara! I think I have to agree with you!
This looks amazing and so moist, Marly!
Thanks Julie! It’s a fun and easy recipe!
Where you wrote “stir in the chocolate chips”, did you really mean to write “zucchini”? This looks yummy. I am making it tomorrow!
Emily – thanks for catching that. I corrected the recipe. You can make this without chocolate chips, but it’s oh so much better with them!
I can see why this is a highly requested cake – it does look incredibly moist. And your list of rules – love them. Can I come and live with you?
Come on over, Cassie! We’ll make room!