Indulge your sweet tooth without feeling guilty! Cakes are a staple at any celebration, but they can often be packed with unhealthy ingredients like refined sugar and excessive calories. But fear not – we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious and healthy cake recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet in check.
From classic flavors to unique twists, these cakes are all made with wholesome ingredients and creative substitutions that reduce the guilt factor. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist and rich chocolate avocado cake, or savoring a sweet and tangy lemon blueberry cake that’s free from gluten. Whether you’re looking for a special treat or just want to spice up your dessert game, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to indulge in some guilt-free goodness!
Flourless Chocolate Avocado Cake
This rich and decadent cake is a game-changer for chocolate lovers, with the added surprise of creamy avocado adding moisture and healthy fats. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups (250g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a blender, combine avocados, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. Add cocoa powder and blend until well combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Carrot Cake with Cashew Frosting
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and flavorful vegan carrot cake, topped with a creamy cashew frosting. Perfect for springtime celebrations or anytime you need a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 large eggs, replaced by 2 flax eggs*
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cashew frosting ingredients (below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine almond milk, oil, flax eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in grated carrots.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cashew Frosting:
– 1 cup soaked cashews
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Soak cashews in water for 4 hours, then blend with remaining ingredients until smooth. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for springtime celebrations or anytime you need a pick-me-up. With the brightness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries, this gluten-free recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, almond milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Cake with Greek Yogurt
This sweet and satisfying cake is a perfect blend of banana, oatmeal, and creamy Greek yogurt. The result is a moist and flavorful dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Low-Sugar Chia Seed Apple Cake
Moist and flavorful, this cake is perfect for those looking for a healthier dessert option without sacrificing taste. By using chia seeds and reducing the amount of sugar, you can indulge in a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup diced apple (about 1 medium-sized)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract.
4. Add chia seeds and diced apple to the egg mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Almond Flour
Moist and flavorful, this pumpkin spice cake made with almond flour is the perfect fall dessert to serve at your next gathering. The combination of warm spices and nutty almond flavor creates a truly unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, and spices.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Protein-Packed Peanut Butter Cake
This moist and delicious peanut butter cake is packed with protein-rich ingredients to fuel your active lifestyle. With only 150 calories per serving, you can indulge in this guilt-free treat without compromising on nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1 large egg
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (20g)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, almond flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, applesauce, egg, protein powder, and honey. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Walnut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of zucchini with the earthy flavor of walnuts, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a snack or dessert, this cake is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated zucchini
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add butter, eggs, zucchini, and walnuts; mix until well combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Cook Time: 70-80 minutes
Dark Chocolate Beetroot Cake
This rich and indulgent cake combines the natural sweetness of beetroot with the deep flavors of dark chocolate, creating a unique and irresistible dessert. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup beetroot puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, beetroot puree, milk, and melted chocolate. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Coconut Flour Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Moist and flavorful, this coconut flour cake is a game-changer for those with gluten intolerance or preferences. The combination of sweet pineapple rings and caramelized brown sugar creates a delightful dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut flour, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, pineapple juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Arrange pineapple rings in the prepared pan, leaving space between each ring.
4. Pour batter over the pineapple, then sprinkle brown sugar evenly on top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Matcha Green Tea Cake with Honey Glaze
Experience the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea balanced by the sweetness of honey in this moist and flavorful cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Honey glaze: 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with honey glaze (mix equal parts honey and heavy cream).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato Spice Cake with Maple Frosting
Sweet Potato Spice Cake with Maple Frosting: A moist and flavorful cake infused with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfectly balanced by a hint of spice, topped off with a rich maple frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
For the frosting:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, eggs, and yogurt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with maple frosting (combine maple syrup, butter, and vanilla extract. Adjust powdered sugar to taste).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Almond Butter Raspberry Swirl Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the richness of almond butter with the tartness of fresh raspberries, creating a unique and irresistible dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine almond butter, eggs, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the raspberries.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and swirl with a knife or spatula.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Quinoa Chocolate Cake with Coconut Whipped Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this unique quinoa-infused chocolate cake paired with a creamy coconut whipped cream. This moist and decadent treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup quinoa flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
For the whipped cream:
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk, chilled
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together quinoa flour, cocoa powder, and sugar.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cakes cool completely before serving with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Strawberry Chia Seed Cake
Moist and flavorful, this strawberry chia seed cake is perfect for a springtime treat or brunch. With the added nutrition of chia seeds, you’ll be indulging in a guilt-free delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and chia seeds.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced strawberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low-Carb Vanilla Bean Cake with Fresh Berries
A moist and flavorful vanilla bean cake infused with the sweetness of fresh berries, perfect for a low-carb dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (100g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Fresh berries of your choice (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, almond flour, granulated sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before slicing and serving with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Pear and Walnut Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a unique dessert option for your next gathering. The combination of tender pears, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices will delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pear puree (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and spices.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and pear puree. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tahini Date Cake with Lemon Drizzle
A moist and flavorful cake filled with the sweetness of dates and the nutty goodness of tahini, topped off with a tangy lemon drizzle. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Lemon drizzle: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped dates, tahini, sugar, and egg. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool before drizzling with lemon glaze (mix lemon juice and powdered sugar in a bowl until smooth).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in guilt-free treats with these 18 delicious and healthy cake recipes. From flourless chocolate avocado cake to vegan carrot cake with cashew frosting, gluten-free lemon blueberry cake to protein-packed peanut butter cake, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference. These innovative recipes use nutritious ingredients like avocados, chia seeds, quinoa, and sweet potatoes to create moist and flavorful cakes that are perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking for a sweet escape, these guilt-free indulgences are sure to satisfy your cravings.
