A moist and rich chocolate cake with a hint of zucchini, perfect for any occasion.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan.
Greasing the pan thoroughly ensures the cake releases easily after baking.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Room temperature butter creams more easily and creates a smoother batter.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Adding eggs one at a time helps them incorporate evenly into the batter.
Stir in the buttermilk and grated zucchini.
Grate the zucchini finely to ensure it blends well into the batter.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a lump-free and well-mixed batter.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.
Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Check the cake at the 40-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling the cake slightly in the pan helps it set and makes it easier to remove.
Serve the cake as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze.
A simple glaze can elevate the presentation and flavor of the cake.