Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can use yellow summer squash in place of the zucchini without changing the flavor. Both varieties have a similar moisture content and mild taste that disappears into the chocolate batter. Just make sure to grate it finely so the texture remains consistent throughout the cake.

How should I store this cake for the best flavor?

This cake stays fresh at room temperature for about two days if you keep it covered under a cake dome. After that, it is best to move it to the refrigerator to keep the ganache from becoming too soft. Many people believe it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

Do I need to peel the zucchini before grating it?

There is no need to peel the zucchini because the skin is very thin and softens completely as it bakes. The small green flecks will mostly disappear into the dark chocolate color of the cake. Leaving the skin on also ensures you get all the natural moisture that the vegetable has to offer.

Can I freeze this cake for later?

You can freeze this cake quite successfully, though it is best to do so before you add the ganache frosting. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn for up to three months. When you are ready to serve, thaw it at room temperature and then prepare a fresh batch of ganache.

What can I use if I do not have flax meal?

If you do not have flax meal, you can substitute it with half a cup of unsweetened applesauce. The applesauce provides the same binding properties and moisture that the flax egg offers. Your cake might be slightly softer, so let it cool completely before you try to slice it.

Why is my ganache not thickening up?

If your ganache stays too thin, it is likely because the coconut milk did not have enough fat or the chocolate ratio was slightly off. You can fix this by adding a few more chocolate pieces and gently reheating the mixture until they melt. Letting it sit in a cool spot for an extra twenty minutes usually helps it reach the right consistency.

Dairy-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake Recipe: Moist And Fudgy

Description

This decadent, plant-based chocolate cake features a tender crumb thanks to fresh garden zucchini. Perfectly moist and rich, this dairy-free dessert is easy to whip up with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

2 cups grated zucchini
2 tablespoons flax meal
6 tablespoons water
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 3/4 cups sugar
3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup non-dairy milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup semi-sweet dairy-free chocolate chips
1/2 cup full-fat canned coconut milk

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Instructions

Preheat your oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Prepare flax binder. Stir together flax meal and water, then let sit for five minutes until thick.
Mix dry ingredients. Whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
Combine wet mixture. Stir zucchini, non-dairy milk, oil, and vanilla into the thickened flax mixture.
Make the batter. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
Bake the cake. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until a tester comes out clean.
Prepare the ganache. Heat coconut milk until steaming, pour over chocolate pieces, and whisk until silky.
Frost the cake. Cool the cake completely, spread with the thickened ganache, and let set before serving.

Notes

Gently squeeze the grated zucchini if it appears overly wet to ensure the cake does not become soggy.
Use room temperature non-dairy milk to prevent the olive oil from clumping during the mixing process.
Measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup rather than scooping directly to avoid a dry, dense texture.
Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the ganache to prevent the frosting from melting into the crumb.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern