Are you a chocolate lover looking for a delicious and healthier dessert option? Look no further! The Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake is the perfect recipe for those who want to indulge without the guilt. This cake is moist, rich, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you want to impress guests at a party or satisfy your sweet cravings, this cake will not disappoint.
Why make this recipe
Making Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake brings many benefits. First and foremost, it is a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate cakes. This recipe uses sweet potatoes and avocados, giving the cake a moist texture while boosting its nutritional value. Sweet potatoes and avocados are rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. They add natural sweetness without the need for excessive sugar.
This cake is also perfect for those following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet. By using self-rising flour or a simple substitute, you can easily make this cake accessible to various dietary preferences. The Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake is an excellent dessert option for birthdays, holidays, or a cozy weeknight treat. Everyone will love the delicious chocolate flavor, while you can feel good about what you are serving.
How to make Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake
Making your own Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake at home is simple and requires just a few steps. You do not need any specialized skills to whip up this delightful dessert. Gather your ingredients, follow the directions, and enjoy a homemade chocolate cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients in USA and Europe metrics:
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup sweet potato, baked and mashed or pureed (about 240 grams)
- 1/3 cup olive oil (about 80 ml)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey (about 110 ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup self-rising flour (about 120 grams)
- 1/3 cup cacao powder (about 30 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
- 2 large avocados
- 1/3 cup cacao powder (for frosting) (about 30 grams)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (for frosting) (about 110 ml)
- Optional topping: shaved chocolate or chocolate sprinkles
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (about 175 degrees C). Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten eggs, mashed or pureed sweet potato, olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Next, sift together the self-rising flour and cacao powder, and add them to the egg mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until everything is mixed.
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Add the baking soda, salt, and optional espresso powder to the batter. Mix until smooth, but do not over mix.
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Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
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Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a small food processor, add the avocados, maple syrup, and cacao powder. Pulse until you have a smooth and fluffy mixture.
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When the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
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Slice the cake and serve! If you wish, you can top it with shaved chocolate or chocolate sprinkles for added decoration.
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the cake if you want to save it for later.
How to serve Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake
Serving Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake is easy and can be customized to fit any occasion. When serving, you can cut the cake into generous slices and place them on individual plates. This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries. A scoop of avocado ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream can make perfect accompaniments for this rich chocolate dessert.
If you want to make the presentation more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a few fresh berries on top. This cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or as a special treat for yourself any day of the week.
How to store Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake
Proper storage is essential to keep your Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake fresh. After allowing the cake to cool completely, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to five days.
If you would like to keep the cake for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave something sweet. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the cake at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Tips to make Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake
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Use ripe avocados: Ensure that your avocados are ripe for a creamy frosting texture. You want them soft but not brown.
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Sweet potato alternatives: If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, you can substitute pumpkin puree. It will give the cake a different, yet delicious flavor.
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Self-rising flour substitute: If you cannot find self-rising flour, you can use regular flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder.
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Adjust sweetness: The sweetness of this cake comes from maple syrup or honey. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
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Add nuts or chocolate chips: If you like, add some nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Variation (if any)
If you want to make this cake even more decadent, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top. To make ganache, simply melt dairy-free chocolate with a bit of coconut milk. Pour it over the frosted cake for a stunning finish. You can also make mini versions of this cake by using a muffin tin for individual servings.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can! If you do not have self-rising flour, use regular flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder for the rise.
Is this cake gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of self-rising flour, the cake will be gluten-free.
How long can I store the cake?
You can store Healthy Chocolate Lovers Cake in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use other natural sweeteners like agave nectar or coconut sugar in place of maple syrup or honey.
How can I make this cake without eggs?
You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup = 1 egg) for a vegan version of the cake, although this may alter the texture slightly.
Nutritional Info:
- Serving size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cake)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: ~4g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Dietary Fiber: ~5g
- Sugars: ~8g
- Fat: ~8g
- Saturated Fat: ~1g
Now that you have this easy and healthy recipe for Chocolate Lovers Cake, you can satisfy your chocolate cravings while still maintaining a nutritious diet. Enjoy!