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Moist chocolate zucchini cake with a rich crumb, topped with chocolate frosting and sliced to show texture.

Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe | Moist & Easy Chocolate Cake

Make chocolate zucchini cake with a rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor. Easy recipe perfect for dessert or using fresh zucchini!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 16 slices
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13‑inch baking pan or loaf pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Grater for zucchini
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all‑purpose flour
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated zucchini (unpeeled, moisture squeezed out)
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • Optional: 1 tsp espresso powder (enhances chocolate flavor)

Instructions
 

  • Prep Zucchini: Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Add Zucchini: Fold grated zucchini into wet mixture.
  • Combine: Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
  • Bake: Pour batter into a greased 9×13‑inch pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool & Serve: Allow cake to cool before slicing. Frost with cream cheese or chocolate ganache if desired.
  • Expert Tip: Add espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.

Notes

  • Don’t peel zucchini—the skin adds nutrients and color.
  • Toss zucchini lightly in flour before folding into batter to prevent sinking.
  • Store cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 5 days.
  • Freeze slices for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
  • Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or frosted for extra indulgence.
Keyword Chocolate Zucchini Cake, family baking, Hidden Veggie Dessert, moist chocolate cake