Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

This Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that balances the sweetness of zucchini with the bright flavor of lemon. Perfect for any occasion!

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:13:49.392Z

This cake combines the moistness of shredded zucchini with the fresh zing of lemon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It's an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a sweet treat!

Why You'll Love This Cake

  • Moist and tender texture from fresh zucchini
  • Bright lemon flavor with a sweet drizzle
  • Perfect for dessert or afternoon tea
  • Easy to make and a great way to use up zucchini

The Perfect Summer Treat

Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings the essence of summer to your table. The combination of fresh zucchini and zesty lemon creates a light, refreshing treat that is perfect for warm weather gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet afternoon on the porch, this cake will surely impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and moist texture.

This cake also doubles as a nutritious option, as the zucchini adds moisture without overwhelming the flavor. With its bright lemony drizzle, it becomes a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth while sneaking in some veggies. It's a great choice for those who want a guilt-free dessert that doesn't compromise on taste.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it as a casual dessert after dinner, or slice it into smaller pieces for a delightful afternoon tea treat. It’s also a fantastic option for potlucks and picnics, where it can be easily transported and enjoyed by all.

Additionally, you can customize this cake to fit your preferences. Try adding nuts or dried fruits for an extra crunch, or substitute the lemon with orange or lime for a different citrus twist. The possibilities are endless, making this cake a staple in your baking repertoire.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake turns out perfectly, start with freshly grated zucchini. Avoid using pre-packaged zucchini that may contain preservatives. Grating your own not only enhances flavor but also allows you to control the moisture content. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to the batter for optimal texture.

Another helpful tip is to use room temperature ingredients. Allow your eggs and oil to warm up before mixing, as this will help achieve a better emulsification, resulting in a fluffier cake. Lastly, keep an eye on your cake while it bakes; ovens vary, and checking for doneness a few minutes early can prevent overbaking.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon

For the Drizzle

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini before adding it to the batter for the best texture.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, shredded zucchini, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Drizzle

While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Drizzle the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.

Let the drizzle set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Storing Your Cake

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness of your Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake. Once cooled, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it for longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

For extended storage, you can freeze the cake. Slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece of this delightful cake whenever the craving strikes!

Pairing Suggestions

Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of lemonade. The bright flavors of lemon in the cake will complement these drinks perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.

If you're looking for something more indulgent, consider serving the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture will balance the cake's moisture and add an extra layer of flavor, making it a decadent dessert option.

Health Benefits of Zucchini

Zucchini is not only a delicious ingredient but also offers numerous health benefits. It is low in calories and high in water content, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, zucchini is a good source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for skin health and immune function.

Moreover, the fiber in zucchini aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. By incorporating zucchini into your baking, you can enjoy a sweet treat while also nourishing your body.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, shredded carrots or apples can be great alternatives.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without the drizzle for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs.

Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake

This Zucchini Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that balances the sweetness of zucchini with the bright flavor of lemon. Perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration40 minutes
Overall Time60 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 tsp baking powder
  3. ½ tsp baking soda
  4. ½ tsp salt
  5. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  6. ½ cup vegetable oil
  7. 1 cup granulated sugar
  8. 2 large eggs
  9. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  10. 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini
  11. Zest of 1 lemon
  12. Juice of 1 lemon

For the Drizzle

  1. 1 cup powdered sugar
  2. 2 tbsp lemon juice

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 03

In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, shredded zucchini, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 06

While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 07

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 22g
  • Protein: 3g