Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake is the perfect indulgence for those who want to satisfy their sweet tooth without the extra calories. Made with wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas, oats, and sugar-free dark chocolate, this cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying it as an afternoon treat or serving it at a gathering, this recipe will leave everyone craving more!
What You’ll Need for Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake
To whip up this delightful treat, gather these simple ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas (240g / 8.5 oz)
- 2 tablespoons raisins (30g / 1 oz)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (15g / 0.5 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (4g)
- 1 cup oats (90g / 3.2 oz)
- 5 tablespoons yogurt or sour cream (75ml / 2.5 fl oz)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (150g / 5 oz)
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (10g / 0.4 oz)
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped (20g / 0.7 oz)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2g)
- Olive oil for greasing
- 80g sugar-free dark chocolate (2.8 oz)
- 3 tablespoons hot milk (45ml / 1.5 fl oz)
- Extra walnuts for decoration
Step-by-Step Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake Recipe
Making this Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake is easy and straightforward. Just follow these steps:
- Prepare the Bananas: Mash the ripe bananas into a smooth puree using a fork or a blender.
- Soak the Raisins: Soak the raisins in cold water for about 15 minutes, then drain them thoroughly.
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) and grease a baking pan with olive oil.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with cocoa powder and mix well.
- Add Eggs and Baking Powder: Stir in the eggs and baking powder until everything is well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the oats and yogurt, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Prepare the Apple: Peel, core, and chop the apple into small pieces, then fold it into the batter.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in the drained raisins, pumpkin seeds, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon until evenly distributed.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make the Chocolate Topping: Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate with hot milk, stirring until it’s smooth and glossy.
- Decorate the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, pour the chocolate mixture over the top and sprinkle with additional chopped walnuts.
- Serve: You can serve it immediately or chill the cake for a firmer chocolate topping.
How to Serve Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake
The best way to enjoy this delectable cake is fresh out of the oven or chilled. For a delightful presentation, slice the cake and serve it on a pretty plate. You can pair it with a dollop of yogurt or even a handful of fresh berries for an extra fruity kick. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon, a birthday celebration, or even as a guilt-free dessert to impress your friends.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add More Flavors: Feel free to mix in other fruits like diced pears or even some shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
- Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the walnuts and replace them with additional pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds if you prefer a nut-free option.
Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just thaw and mash them before using, and make sure they’re completely defrosted.
Q: Is there a way to make this cake vegan?
A: You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use plant-based yogurt.
Q: How can I make the cake sweeter?
A: If you want a sweeter cake, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter.
Give this Guilt-Free Chocolate Cake a try; you won’t be disappointed! It’s a sweet indulgence that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with your loved ones!