If you are on the lookout for a refreshing twist on classic bakewell and want to impress your family or guests with something moist, zesty, and irresistibly delightful, this Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Combining the subtle earthiness of courgettes with the bright, punchy tang of lime, this cake is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to eat. The natural moisture from the courgette keeps it tender while the lime zest and juice lift the flavors, making for a perfect balance that’s both light and indulgent in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board with neatly arranged ingredients for baking. There is a white bowl filled with white powdered icing sugar on the top left. Below it is another white bowl with light brown sugar. Near the center are two dark green courgettes placed side by side. To their right, two brown eggs sit next to each other, with a small black bottle of vanilla bean paste between the courgettes and icing sugar. Above the eggs are two bright green limes. A small white bowl filled with light yellow vegetable oil is placed near the limes. On the bottom right, there is a white bowl containing plain white flour topped with white baking powder and bicarbonate of soda. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role in the final texture and flavour. From the moist courgette to the zesty lime, every component is essential to create that impeccable taste and perfect crumb.

2 medium eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
120 ml vegetable oil (or rapeseed/canola oil): Keeps the cake moist without overpowering the delicate flavors.
90 g light brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and deep caramel notes.
350 g courgette (coarsely grated): The hero ingredient that brings natural moisture and a gentle earthiness.
1 tsp vanilla bean paste: Introduces a warm, aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
290 g plain flour (all-purpose flour): The base that holds the cake together with a tender crumb.
½ tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda): Helps the cake rise and become delightfully airy.
½ tsp baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure perfect lift.
1 lime (zest only): Adds fresh citrus fragrance and lifts the entire cake.
90 g icing sugar: For the sweet, tangy glaze.
1 lime (juice and zest): Powers the icing and gives your cake an irresistible zing.

How to Make Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin

Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C Fan. This lower temperature ensures your cake cooks evenly and stays wonderfully moist. Lightly grease a 2lbs loaf tin, then line it with baking parchment to guarantee your cake will come out cleanly without sticking. A well-prepared tin is crucial for a perfect loaf shape and easy slicing later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat your eggs, vegetable oil, light brown sugar, and vanilla bean paste together using a handheld mixer for about a minute. You want to combine everything until smooth and slightly fluffy. Next, gently fold in the grated courgette and lime zest, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. The courgette adds moisture, while the lime zest infuses that fresh vibrancy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the raising agents, which helps your cake rise perfectly without lumps.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet courgette batter. Stir gently but thoroughly, taking care not to overmix. This step is key to keeping the cake tender and light — overworking the batter can cause it to become dense, so be delicate.

Step 5: Bake until Golden

Pour your batter into the lined loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the centre of the oven and bake for about 1 hour. Around the 55-minute mark, insert a skewer into the middle of the cake. If it comes out clean, congratulations — your Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe is ready to come out of the oven!

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in its tin for 10 to 15 minutes to let it set and become easier to handle. Then, gently lift it out using the overhanging baking parchment and transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right.

Step 7: Prepare and Add the Icing

Once cooled to room temperature, it’s time for a beautiful final touch — the lime icing. Place the icing sugar in a bowl, start by stirring in one tablespoon of lime juice, and mix well. Add more lime juice, a little at a time, until the icing reaches a thick but drizzleable consistency. Pour this luscious glaze over the loaf, allowing it to cascade over the sides. Finish by scattering fresh lime zest on top for a vibrant and zesty finish.

How to Serve Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe

The image shows a rectangular baking pan lined with parchment paper, filled with a thick, chunky mixture that appears greenish-yellow with visible dark green bits scattered evenly throughout. The mixture is spread flat inside the pan, with a rough, textured top surface. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface, and the overall scene has a simple, clean look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The lime zest sprinkled over the iced cake is already a stunning garnish, but you can also consider adding a few edible flowers or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Toasted coconut flakes make a lovely complement to the zingy lime and courgette flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake is perfect as a stand-alone treat with a cup of tea or fresh coffee. If you want to elevate your serving, a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a small scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the citrus notes. For brunch, a fresh fruit salad with berries or kiwi adds color and freshness alongside each slice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve slices of the Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe on pretty dessert plates topped with a sprig of mint and a thin wheel of lime for color contrast. You can also cut it into small squares for bite-sized treats at parties, or even stack a couple of slices with a smear of cream cheese frosting for a decadent layered dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Courgette and Lime Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days without losing moisture or flavor. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option if you’re planning for a gathering or want to enjoy a treat throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep your cake longer, wrap it tightly in cling film and place it in a freezer bag. The cake freezes well for up to 2 months, so you can bake in advance and enjoy slices whenever the craving hits. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy your Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. A warm slice with a soft, tangy icing melt is heavenly. Avoid reheating whole cakes in the oven as it may dry out the cake.

FAQs

Can I use zucchini instead of courgette in this recipe?

Yes! Courgette and zucchini are essentially the same vegetable with different names depending on where you are. Feel free to use zucchini if that’s what you have—your cake will turn out just as delicious.

Do I need to peel the courgette before grating?

There’s no need to peel the courgette. The skin is thin, nutritious, and adds a lovely green fleckiness to the cake. Just wash it well before grating.

Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?

In this recipe, the combination of both helps achieve the perfect rise and crumb texture. Baking soda neutralizes the acidity from the lime juice, while baking powder provides additional lift for a light bake.

Can I substitute lime with lemon?

Absolutely! Lemon will provide a similar citrus freshness, though it’s slightly less tart than lime. The cake will still be delicious, just a different citrus note.

How long will the cake keep once iced?

The icing won’t negatively affect the cake’s freshness. Store it in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Courgette and Lime Cake Recipe — it’s a wonderful surprise if you haven’t baked with courgettes before, and a fantastic way to brighten your baking repertoire. The delicate moistness, combined with that uplifting lime zing, will keep you coming back for just one more slice. I encourage you to give it a try and share this charming loaf with friends and family; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with a lovely homemade touch!