Embrace the joy of baking with this homemade skinny chocolate cake. The recipe uses healthier alternatives like unsweetened apple sauce and fat free milk, making it a guilt-free delight. Its rich and moist texture, coupled with an intense chocolate flavor, is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping the calorie count in check.
The recipe calls for instant chocolate pudding, which adds a unique depth to the cake's flavor and makes it extra moist. It's a ready-to-use mix that is widely available in supermarkets, usually found in the baking aisle. Another ingredient that might not be a staple in your home is fat free Greek yogurt. It's a healthier substitute for traditional ingredients used in baking to provide moisture, and can be found in the dairy section of most grocery stores.
Ingredients for Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
Sugar: It's a common ingredient used to sweeten the cake and balance the bitterness of cocoa.
Canola oil: It's a neutral-tasting vegetable oil used in baking for its light texture.
Apple sauce: It's a fat substitute that will keep your cake moist without adding extra fat.
Egg: They provide structure and stability to the cake.
Coffee: It enhances the flavor of the chocolate.
Cocoa powder: It gives the cake its chocolate flavor.
Vanilla extract: It adds a depth of flavor.
Fat free milk: It's used for its creamy texture and it's lower in calories.
Cake flour: It's a fine-textured flour that results in a light and fluffy cake.
Instant chocolate pudding: It's a flavor enhancer that also contributes to the moistness of the cake.
Salt: It enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
Baking powder and baking soda: They're leavening agents that make the cake rise.
Greek yogurt: It's a fat substitute that adds moisture to the cake, keeping it soft and light.
One reader, Graig Quintana says:
This homemade skinny chocolate cake recipe is a game-changer! It's unbelievably moist and rich in flavor, yet guilt-free. The use of apple sauce and Greek yogurt makes it a healthier option without compromising on taste. It's a hit with my family and friends, and I love that it's so easy to make!
Techniques Required for Making a Skinny Chocolate Cake
How to prepare the cake pan: Lightly spray and flour the cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
How to combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake flour, dry chocolate pudding mix, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside this mixture as the dry ingredients.
How to combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, dissolve the cocoa powder in hot coffee, then slowly add the milk and vanilla extract. Set aside this mixture as the wet ingredients.
How to mix the batter: In a stand mixer on low speed, combine the sugar and oil until well mixed. Then, add the applesauce, eggs, and egg whites until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry and wet ingredients, alternating between the two until all ingredients are mixed in.
How to add Greek yogurt: Gently stir in the plain fat-free Greek yogurt until just combined with the batter.
How to bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If making cupcakes, bake for 25-30 minutes.
How To Make Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
For the love of moist cake and chocolates! This skinny chocolate cake is a sure yum. Don’t forget to drizzle chocolate sauce and raspberries on top.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupssugar
- 3tbspcanola oil
- 4ozunsweetened apple sauce
- 1egg
- 2egg whites
- 1cuphot coffee
- ¾cupsunsweetened cocoa powder
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1cupfat free milk
- 2cupscake flour,not self rising
- 1pkginstant chocolate pudding,not sugar free
- 1tspsalt
- 1tspbaking powder
- 1½tspbaking soda
- ¼cupplain fat free Greek yogurt
- spray oil
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
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Lightly spray and flour your cake pan.
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In a large bowl combine flour, dry chocolate pudding mix, salt, baking powder, and baking soda and set aside.
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In a medium bowl, combine hot coffee with the cocoa powder until it dissolves. Slowly add milk and vanilla extract. Set aside.
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In a stand mixer on low speed combine the sugar and oil; mix to combine well.
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Add the applesauce until mixed through. Then add eggs and egg whites until incorporated.
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Starting with the dry ingredients, slowly add a little of the dry, then a little of the wet ingredients, alternating between wet and dry until all the ingredients are mixed in.
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The last step is to add the Greek yogurt and just stir to combine.
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Pour into the cake pan and transfer to the oven.
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Depending on the pan you use, bake for 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cupcakes will be closer to 25 to 30 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 176.50kcal
- Fat: 4.08g
- Saturated Fat: 0.64g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.28g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.02g
- Carbohydrates: 33.42g
- Fiber: 1.67g
- Sugar: 19.76g
- Protein: 3.25g
- Cholesterol: 8.43mg
- Sodium: 216.89mg
- Calcium: 54.89mg
- Potassium: 119.14mg
- Iron: 1.61mg
- Vitamin A: 20.45µg
- Vitamin C: 1.33mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
When adding the dry and wet ingredients alternately to the sugar and oil mixture, make sure to begin and end with the dry ingredients. This method, known as the creaming method, helps to keep the cake light and fluffy. Also, avoid overmixing once you add the Greek yogurt. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake. Just stir until it's combined for a perfect skinny chocolate cake.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the cake. This will help streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to easily combine the wet and dry ingredients, saving time and effort compared to mixing by hand.
Organize your workspace: Clear and organize your workspace before you begin to ensure a smooth and efficient baking process.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe measurements and instructions to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming adjustments later on.
Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven while you prepare the batter to save time and ensure it's ready for baking when the cake is fully mixed.
Use a timer: Set a timer to keep track of baking and cooling times, allowing you to multitask without constantly checking the clock.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake Recipe
sugar - Substitute with stevia: Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener that can be used as a sugar substitute in baking. It is much sweeter than sugar, so you will need to use less of it.
canola oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to oil in baking, reducing the fat content of the cake.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used as an egg substitute in baking, providing a similar binding effect.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can be whipped to stiff peaks and used as a substitute for egg whites in baking.
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cake flour by adding a small amount of cornstarch to mimic the lower protein content of cake flour.
instant chocolate pudding - Substitute with cornstarch and cocoa powder: A mixture of cornstarch and cocoa powder can be used to replace instant chocolate pudding mix in the recipe.
fat free milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to fat-free milk in the recipe.
plain fat free greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut milk yogurt: Coconut milk yogurt can be used as a dairy-free alternative to Greek yogurt, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Presenting Your Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
Elevate with a dusting of cocoa powder: After slicing the cake into individual portions, delicately dust the top with a fine layer of cocoa powder to add a touch of elegance and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Garnish with fresh berries: Arrange a selection of fresh berries, such as raspberries and blueberries, around the edge of the plate to add a pop of color and a burst of fruity freshness to complement the rich chocolate cake.
Drizzle with a raspberry coulis: Create a beautiful drizzle on the plate using a vibrant raspberry coulis, adding a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cake and creating an artistic presentation.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small, carefully piped dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of the cake slice, adding a creamy and luxurious element to the dessert.
Sprinkle with edible gold flakes: For a truly luxurious touch, sprinkle a few edible gold flakes over the cake, adding a shimmering and opulent finish to the presentation.
Serve on a bed of chocolate ganache: Create a decadent base for the cake slice by spreading a thin layer of rich chocolate ganache on the plate before placing the slice, adding depth and richness to the dessert.
Accompany with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream: Serve the cake with a small scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream, adding a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor to the warm cake.
Create a chocolate drizzle design: Using a piping bag, create an intricate chocolate drizzle design on the plate before placing the cake slice, adding a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Sprinkle with edible flower petals: For a delicate and sophisticated touch, sprinkle a few edible flower petals over the cake, adding a touch of natural beauty and a subtle floral aroma.
Serve with a side of chocolate sauce: Present the cake with a small side dish of warm chocolate sauce for guests to drizzle over their slice, allowing for a customizable and interactive dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making a Skinny Chocolate Cake
Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a versatile tool that can be used for mixing cake batter, whipping egg whites, and creaming ingredients. It's a convenient and efficient way to combine the ingredients for the chocolate cake recipe.
Cake pan: A cake pan is essential for baking the chocolate cake. It provides the structure for the cake and ensures even baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients is crucial in baking, so using measuring cups and spoons is important to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures in the cake.
Whisk: A whisk is useful for combining the dry ingredients and for mixing the wet ingredients together. It helps to ensure a smooth and consistent batter.
Spatula: A spatula is handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and for transferring the cake batter into the cake pan.
Oven: The oven is essential for baking the chocolate cake to perfection. It provides the heat necessary to transform the batter into a delicious cake.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
Allow the chocolate cake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. The cake will stay fresh for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze the chocolate cake, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can bring it to room temperature before serving, if desired.
If you plan to freeze individual slices of the cake, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. This will allow you to thaw and enjoy individual portions as needed.
When thawing a frozen chocolate cake, be sure to remove any plastic wrap or aluminum foil before microwaving or reheating to prevent the material from melting onto the cake.
How To Reheat Leftover Chocolate Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chocolate cake on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through. The foil will help prevent the cake from drying out.
If you have a microwave-safe plate, you can reheat individual slices of cake in the microwave. Place a slice on the plate and microwave it on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the thickness of the slice and your microwave's power.
For a quick and easy method, you can use a steamer basket. Boil a pot of water, place the leftover cake in the steamer basket, and place it over the boiling water. Cover the pot and let the cake steam for about 5-10 minutes, or until it's heated through.
If you want to add a little extra moisture to your leftover cake, try the oven method but place a small oven-safe dish of water on the rack below the cake. The water will create steam and help keep the cake moist as it reheats.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, moist interior, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place a slice of cake directly on the rack, and toast for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
Interesting Fact About Skinny Chocolate Cake
The recipe contains unsweetened cocoa powder and chocolate pudding for a rich chocolate flavor without adding extra sugar.
Is Making Skinny Chocolate Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this homemade skinny chocolate cake recipe is quite high. The use of ingredients like unsweetened applesauce, fat-free milk, and Greek yogurt keeps the cost down while still delivering a delicious dessert. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability and the use of simple, cost-effective ingredients.
Is This Chocolate Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for homemade skinny chocolate cake has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Let's break it down:
Positives:
- Using applesauce and Greek yogurt reduces the amount of oil needed
- Egg whites are used instead of whole eggs, lowering the cholesterol content
- Fat-free milk is used, cutting down on saturated fat
- Instant chocolate pudding mix adds flavor without excessive sugar or fat
Negatives:
- The recipe still contains a significant amount of sugar (1½ cups)
- Cake flour, while lighter than all-purpose flour, is still a refined carbohydrate
- The use of instant pudding mix may introduce additional preservatives and artificial ingredients
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the sugar content by using a natural sweetener like Stevia or monk fruit extract, or simply cut the amount of sugar by 1/3 to 1/2 cup
- Replace half of the cake flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content and nutrients
- Opt for a homemade chocolate pudding mix using cocoa powder, cornstarch, and a touch of sweetener to avoid preservatives
- Increase the amount of applesauce and decrease the oil further, or use a heart-healthy oil like coconut oil
- Add in some shredded zucchini or grated beets for extra moisture and nutrients without affecting the taste
- Top the cake with fresh berries and a dusting of cocoa powder instead of frosting for a lighter finish
Editor's Opinion on This Skinny Chocolate Cake Recipe
This homemade skinny chocolate cake recipe is a delightful and guilt-free treat. The use of apple sauce and Greek yogurt adds moisture and richness without the extra calories. The combination of cocoa powder and instant chocolate pudding creates a deep, indulgent chocolate flavor. The addition of hot coffee enhances the richness of the cake. The use of canola oil and fat-free milk keeps the cake light and airy. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful option for those looking for a healthier chocolate cake without sacrificing flavor.
Enhance Your Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Suggested Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake
Why trust this Homemade Skinny Chocolate Cake Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful balance of indulgence and health, featuring unsweetened apple sauce and fat free Greek yogurt to reduce the calorie count without compromising on flavor. The addition of instant chocolate pudding ensures a moist, rich texture, while the use of canola oil and egg whites contributes to a heart-healthy profile. The incorporation of hot coffee and cocoa powder infuses a deep, robust chocolate essence. With meticulous attention to detail and a focus on wholesome ingredients, this recipe promises a guilt-free, decadent treat that's both satisfying and nourishing.
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