Chocolate and Blueberry Cake

a delicious recipe for a chocolate and blueberry cake, along with some healthy nutrition tips to enhance its wholesome qualities.

Chocolate and Blueberry Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the cake:
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar or honey/maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (as a healthy fat substitute)
  • 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if using frozen, do not thaw)
• For frosting (optional):
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the coconut sugar, applesauce, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries, taking care not to overmix.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare Frosting (optional): In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake if desired.
8. Serve: Slice and enjoy your healthy chocolate and blueberry cake!

Healthy Nutrition Tips

1. Whole Grains: Using whole wheat flour instead of refined flour increases fiber content, which can aid digestion and provide sustained energy.
2. Healthy Sweeteners: Coconut sugar and honey or maple syrup are typically less processed than white sugar, and offer some additional nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener used to suit your taste.
3. Fruit Addition: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Adding them boosts the nutritional value of the cake while providing natural sweetness.
4. Healthy Fats: Instead of oil or butter, using applesauce helps to reduce calories and saturated fat. It also adds moisture to the cake.
5. Portion Control: Keep your serving sizes moderate. Pairing the cake with fresh fruit or yogurt can help increase the nutritional density of your dessert.
6. Dairy Alternatives: If you want to make this cake dairy-free, stick to plant-based milk and yogurt, which can also contribute beneficial nutrients.
7. Mindful Eating: Take time to enjoy each bite of the cake. Mindful eating can help you feel satisfied with smaller portions.

Enjoy your healthy chocolate and blueberry cake!