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Healthy Sweet Potato Chocolate Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
  6. 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.
  7. Cool the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing to prevent breakage.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.