Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is naturally sweetened, easy to make, and perfect for everyday treats or special occasions. It uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers a soft, tender crumb with a deep chocolate taste. You can enjoy dessert while still sticking to your healthy eating goals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
whole wheat flour
unsweetened cocoa powder
baking powder
baking soda
salt
eggs
honey or maple syrup
unsweetened applesauce
olive oil or coconut oil
milk or almond milk
vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, honey or maple syrup, applesauce, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing or frosting.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a baking time of 25 to 30 minutes. Total time is around 40 minutes.
Variations
You can add dark chocolate chips for extra richness or fold in chopped nuts for texture. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices briefly in the microwave if desired, though it’s also delicious served at room temperature.
FAQs
Is this cake really healthy?
It’s made with more nutritious ingredients and less refined sugar, making it a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate cake.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well, though whole wheat adds more fiber.
What sweetener works best?
Honey and maple syrup both work well and provide natural sweetness.
Can I frost this cake?
Yes, a light yogurt-based or dark chocolate frosting pairs nicely.
Is this cake suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s kid-friendly and less sugary than most cakes.
Can I make this cake vegan?
You can replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk.
Does it taste like regular chocolate cake?
Yes, it’s moist and chocolatey with a slightly lighter sweetness.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Yes, adjust the baking time to about 40–45 minutes.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Avoid overbaking and store it in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Healthy Chocolate Cake proves that dessert can be both nourishing and delicious. With its rich cocoa flavor and soft texture, this cake is perfect for enjoying a sweet treat while making mindful ingredient choices.
PrintHealthy Chocolate Cake
A rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey cake made with wholesome ingredients and natural sweeteners, offering a healthier take on classic chocolate cake without sacrificing flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil or coconut oil
- 1/2 cup milk or almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, honey or maple syrup, applesauce, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing or frosting.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be added for extra texture.
- Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- Let the cake cool fully to retain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
