If you’re looking for a healthier dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Flourless and Sugar-Free Apple and Cocoa Cake is the perfect choice. Packed with the natural sweetness of apples, the richness of cocoa, and a moist, tender texture, this cake is entirely free from flour and refined sugars, making it a wholesome option for anyone seeking a healthier treat. Whether you follow a gluten-free, sugar-free, or low-carb lifestyle, this cake ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—proof that a nutritious dessert can also be delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into chunks)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or any nut or seed butter of your choice)
- 1/4 cup stevia or monk fruit sweetener (or your preferred sugar substitute, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, but helps brighten the flavors)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Apples
In a small saucepan, combine the chopped apples with 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples soften slightly but remain intact. Drain any excess water and set the apples aside to cool. Alternatively, microwave the apples in a covered bowl for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, almond butter, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the cocoa powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Stir in the sweetener of your choice. Mix everything until fully incorporated. If the batter seems too thick, gradually add almond milk a tablespoon at a time until the batter reaches a smooth, slightly pourable consistency.
5. Add the Apples
Gently fold the softened apples into the batter, mixing just enough to evenly distribute them.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine, but not wet batter).
7. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Conclusion
This Flourless and Sugar-Free Apple and Cocoa Cake proves that healthy desserts can be both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, low-carb, or sugar-free diet, this cake is a nutritious and indulgent treat that won’t derail your health goals. It’s moist, chocolatey, and subtly sweet, made with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your cravings.
Try it as a mid-day snack, a healthy dessert after dinner, or even as a guilt-free breakfast option. Happy baking—and enjoy!
