Nigella Chocolate Courgette Cake

Dive into the delicious and intriguing world of baking with the Chocolate Courgette Cake, a recipe that combines the unexpected twist of courgettes (zucchinis) with the rich indulgence of chocolate. This cake offers a moist, flavorful experience, subtly enhanced by the addition of courgettes, making it a perfect blend of health and pleasure.

Cultural or Historical Context
The idea of adding vegetables to cakes has a long history, aimed at enhancing moisture and nutrition. The Chocolate Courgette Cake stands out as a modern classic, popularized by culinary innovators like Nigella Lawson and adapted by chefs worldwide. It's a testament to the versatility of ingredients and the endless creativity in baking.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Courgette Cake

• Wet Ingredients:
  • Unsalted butter: 120g (softened)
  • Sunflower oil: 125ml
  • Caster sugar: 100g
  • Soft brown sugar: 200g
  • Eggs: 3 (lightly beaten)
  • Milk: 125ml
  • Vanilla extract: 5ml
• Dry Ingredients:
  • Plain flour: 350g
  • Baking powder: 8g
  • Cocoa powder: 30g
  • Courgettes (peeled and finely grated): 450g
  • Chocolate chips: 100g
• Vanilla Icing:
  • Unsalted butter: 150g (softened)
  • Vanilla extract: 10ml
  • Icing sugar: 375g
  • Cocoa powder for decoration
  • Walnut halves (optional): 12

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking tin with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the butter, oils, and sugars until fluffy before gradually incorporating the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder, then fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
4. After squeezing excess water from the grated courgettes, stir them into the batter along with the chocolate chips.
5. Pour the mixture into your prepared tin and bake until a skewer comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before applying the vanilla icing.

Storage and Reheating

Store your Chocolate Courgette Cake in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices with baking paper between them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

This cake is a delightful treat that balances the richness of chocolate with the health benefits of courgettes. While specific nutritional values depend on the exact ingredients used, this cake offers a good source of energy, thanks to the sugars and fats, along with the nutritional benefits of zucchini, such as dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

FAQ about the Chocolate Courgette Cake

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative, though you may need to adjust the quantity of baking powder.
• How can I ensure my cake is moist? The key is not to overbake the cake and to make sure the courgettes are well-drained of moisture before adding them to the batter.
• Can I make this cake vegan? Yes, by substituting the eggs, butter, and milk with vegan alternatives such as flax eggs, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.

Enjoy this luscious Chocolate Courgette Cake with a cup of tea or coffee, perfect for any occasion that calls for a slice of something sweet yet surprisingly wholesome. It's a testament to the magic that happens when traditional baking meets the bounty of the vegetable garden.

Original recipe inspiration from Nigella Lawson and variations by other chefs show the adaptability and widespread appeal of this unique cake​​​​.