Description
A bright, moist, and tender Lemon Zucchini Cake made with fresh zucchini and vibrant lemon flavor, finished with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for summer or any time you want a lighter dessert.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups finely grated zucchini (do not drain)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup plain yogurt or dairy-free alternative
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, maple syrup (or honey), lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla, and yogurt until smooth.
- Gently fold in the grated zucchini.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Notes
Do not drain the zucchini—its moisture keeps the cake tender.
For a tropical twist, substitute lime for lemon.
Add 1/2 cup of blueberries for extra flavor and texture.
Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg