How to Make an Easy Chocolate Cake with Nuts (Butter-Free and Healthy)
Chocolate cake fans, rejoice! If you’re looking for a healthy chocolate cake that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture, look no further. This easy chocolate cake with nuts recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also a much lighter version of your traditional chocolate cake. The best part? It contains no butter or flour, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a healthier, yet indulgent, dessert option. Thanks to applesauce as a substitute for butter, this cake remains moist and delicious, without the heaviness that butter often brings.
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just want to create a quick and nutritious dessert, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, the addition of walnuts gives it a delightful brownie-like texture that’s hard to resist. So, let’s dive into this amazing and easy chocolate cake recipe!
Why This Chocolate Cake is the Perfect Healthy Treat
For those who love chocolate cake but want to avoid the added fats of traditional recipes, this is the perfect solution. The secret to the light, moist texture of this cake lies in the applesauce, which replaces butter and oils. This gives the cake its rich flavor without the extra calories.
Additionally, this cake is made with almond powder, adding a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the walnuts in the recipe. This gives the cake a lovely depth of flavor, making each bite satisfying without being overly indulgent.
Ingredients for Easy Chocolate Cake with Nuts
This cake is not only healthy but also incredibly simple to make. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients (for 6 to 8 people):
- 200g dark chocolate (choose a high-quality, at least 70% cocoa)
- 2 eggs
- 75g coconut sugar (or any sweetener of your choice)
- 100g applesauce (without added sugar)
- 90g almond powder
- 1/2 sachet of baking powder (about 7g)
- 75g walnuts (roughly chopped)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Easy Chocolate Cake with Nuts
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the easy steps for making this butter-free chocolate cake.
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Start by chopping the dark chocolate into smaller pieces. Place it in a heatproof bowl and melt it using a bain-marie method, which means setting the bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir the chocolate until it’s fully melted and smooth.
Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and coconut sugar together until they’re well combined and slightly frothy. This step will help create the airy texture of your cake.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the melted chocolate, applesauce, and the dry mixture of almond powder and baking powder into the egg mixture. Stir well until everything is fully combined. You should now have a smooth, thick batter.
Step 4: Add Walnuts for Texture
Chop the walnuts roughly and fold them into the batter. This will add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to your cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Pan
Line a 20×20 cm square pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Since this cake is slightly denser than traditional cakes, check it after 15 minutes with a toothpick to ensure it is fully cooked. The toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Step 7: Let It Cool Before Serving
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let the cake cool completely before serving. The cooling process will help set the cake and make it easier to slice.
Why This Easy Chocolate Cake with Nuts is a Hit
This easy chocolate cake with nuts is a perfect blend of healthy ingredients and delicious flavor. It’s great for anyone looking to indulge in a chocolatey treat without the guilt. With the natural sweetness of applesauce, the crunch of walnuts, and the richness of dark chocolate, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser.
Additionally, the absence of butter and flour makes it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions or those simply trying to eat healthier. The almond powder provides a light, nutty base, while the chocolate gives it that indulgent taste everyone loves.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chocolate Cake
- Use Quality Dark Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of your cake. Go for high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) to get the best results.
- Add More Nuts: If you love nuts, feel free to add extra walnuts or even experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to add more variety.
- Store the Cake Properly: This cake will stay fresh for about 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgent experience, serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings