Description
This Healthy Sweet Potato Chocolate Cake is a moist, nutrient-packed dessert that combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with rich cocoa and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for those seeking a wholesome treat, this cake uses whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and cooled)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 tsp coconut oil (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potato, eggs, maple syrup or honey, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour), unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt thoroughly to distribute the leavening and cocoa evenly.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If using, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing to prevent breakage.
- Prepare Optional Glaze: Melt 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips with 1 tsp coconut oil using a microwave or double boiler until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 8 servings and enjoy your healthy chocolate treat.
Notes
- You can substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour if preferred.
- Using maple syrup or honey adds natural sweetness, but you can adjust the amount based on your taste.
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and ensure sweeteners and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.
- The optional chocolate glaze adds extra decadence but can be skipped for a lighter cake.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Ensure the sweet potato is fully cooked and cooled before mashing for best texture.