In recent years, gluten-free baking has gained immense popularity, not just among those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, but also among health-conscious individuals looking to reduce their gluten intake. One such delightful creation is the gluten-free courgette cake. This moist, flavorful cake is not only a treat for your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch, thanks to the inclusion of courgettes (zucchinis). In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of gluten-free courgette cake, provide a detailed recipe, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Gluten-free courgette cake is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Courgettes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any baked good. Second, by using gluten-free flour, this cake becomes accessible to those who need or choose to avoid gluten. Lastly, the natural moisture from the courgettes ensures that the cake remains soft and tender, even without the use of traditional wheat flour.
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. Most of these are pantry staples, making this cake easy to whip up at any time.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free flour blend | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Grated courgette (zucchini) | 2 cups |
| Chopped walnuts (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious gluten-free courgette cake.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure that all the dry ingredients are well combined.
In another bowl, beat the eggs until light and frothy. Add the sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Stir in the grated courgette.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If you’re using walnuts, fold them into the batter at this stage.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy your gluten-free courgette cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Courgettes are low in calories but high in essential vitamins and minerals. They’re particularly rich in vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Additionally, the use of gluten-free flour makes this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The inclusion of walnuts adds a dose of healthy fats and protein, making this cake a well-rounded treat.
Yes, you can use other gluten-free flours such as almond flour, coconut flour, or oat flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and moisture content may vary, so you may need to adjust the recipe slightly.
Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based oil like coconut oil. Ensure that your sugar is also vegan-friendly.
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Certainly! Feel free to add other mix-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as additional ingredients may affect the texture of the cake.
Gluten-free courgette cake is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier treat, this cake is sure to impress. With its moist texture, subtle sweetness, and hidden vegetable goodness, it’s a dessert that everyone can enjoy. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!
``` Back to Home