About the Recipe
This version of the festive cake is lower in refined sugars, higher in fiber, and includes healthier fats. Enjoy your guilt-free treat!
It should take 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, since ovens can vary, it's always a good idea to check for doneness around 30 minutes.
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. The cake is ready if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If it comes out with a wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes before testing again.
Additionally, if you're using a cake pan of a different size or shape than what's specified in the recipe, the cooking time may need to be adjusted accordingly. Thinner cakes may bake faster, while thicker cakes may take longer. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to ensure it stays balanced.
Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat flour (or a combination of whole wheat and almond flour for added nutrients)
1 cup coconut sugar (or another natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce (instead of butter)
4 eggs or 4 flaxseed eggs (to make flaxseed eggs, mix 4 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 8 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
Optional: chopped nuts, dried fruits, dark chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Confectioners' sugar for dusting (optional)
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce and coconut sugar until well mixed.
Add eggs or flaxseed eggs to the applesauce mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the applesauce mixture, alternating with the almond milk. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
If you're adding nuts, dried fruits, or dark chocolate chips, fold them into the batter gently.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cake is cooled, you can dust it with a little confectioners' sugar for a festive touch.