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Lemon Zucchini Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 55 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon Zucchini Cake is a moist and flavorful treat that combines fresh shredded zucchini with bright lemon zest and juice, creating a delicate and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. The cake is easy to prepare and bakes to a tender crumb, making it an excellent option for a simple homemade dessert or snack.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Other

  • 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prep pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  4. Combine dry and wet mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined to avoid overmixing.
  5. Fold in zucchini: Gently fold in the shredded zucchini, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  7. Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the shredded zucchini if it is very wet to prevent the batter from becoming too runny.
  • For a nutty flavor, you can add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans folded in with the zucchini.
  • This cake keeps well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, or top with a lemon glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.