I’m thrilled to share this revolutionary healthy chocolate cake recipe that proves healthy baking can be absolutely delicious. This protein-rich, gluten-free chocolate cake combines the richness of dark chocolate with the nutritious benefits of almonds, creating a decadent dessert that’s perfect for health-conscious food lovers.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake
- ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup (120ml) hot water
- 7 oz (200g) whole almonds
- 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup (110g) brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat oven to 340°F (170°C)
- Line an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan with parchment paper
- Lightly grease the sides with olive oil
- Prepare the Almond Base
- Process almonds in a food processor until finely ground
- Be careful not to over-process to avoid making almond butter
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- Dissolve cocoa powder in hot water, stir until smooth
- Let cool slightly
- In a large bowl, beat eggs until light and fluffy
- Gradually add olive oil while continuing to beat
- Add brown sugar, mix until well combined
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- Mix ground almonds with baking powder
- Fold into wet ingredients
- Add cocoa mixture
- Stir until just combined, don’t overmix
- Bake
- Pour batter into prepared pan
- Smooth top with spatula
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until skewer comes out clean
- Let cool in pan for 10 minutes
- Transfer to wire rack to cool completely
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use room temperature eggs for better emulsion
- Don’t overbake – cake should be slightly fudgy
- Let cool completely before slicing
- Store in an airtight container
Nutrition Information (per slice, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 11g
- Iron: 2mg
- Calcium: 80mg
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits
This cake is packed with nutritional benefits:
- High in protein from almonds and eggs
- Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and almonds
- Good source of fiber
- Contains antioxidants from cocoa
- Gluten-free and dairy-free
- Lower glycemic index than traditional cakes
This flourless chocolate cake proves that healthy desserts don’t have to compromise on taste. The combination of ground almonds and cocoa creates a rich, moist texture that’s simultaneously light and satisfying. Perfect for anyone following a gluten-free diet or looking for a healthier dessert option, this cake delivers the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence.
Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a guilt-free treat, this protein-rich chocolate cake is sure to become a favorite in your healthy baking repertoire. The natural sweetness of brown sugar combined with the richness of cocoa creates a perfectly balanced chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet craving.
