This mouthwatering cake is incredibly moist and packed with juicy raisins and pieces of apple, providing a natural sweetness that eliminates the need for added sugar. And the best part? It doesn’t contain any sugar, oil, milk, or yogurt, making it a guilt-free dessert that you can enjoy without worrying about excess calories or unhealthy fats.
Here’s a simple recipe inspired by the cake in the image, perfect for those who want to indulge in a delicious treat without any guilt.
Let’s Gather Our Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (for a healthier alternative)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (to replace oil and provide moisture)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (natural sweeteners)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (provides natural sweetness and moisture)
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds, optional for texture and nutrition)
Let’s Get Baking:
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a cake pan with a little butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Combine the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. It’s important not to over-mix to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Add Fruits and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the diced apples, raisins, and optional chopped nuts into the batter.
Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve it as is, or if desired, dust lightly with powdered cinnamon or drizzle with a little more honey.
Nutritional Benefits:
This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The whole wheat flour, apples, and nuts provide a good amount of fiber, while the honey and applesauce give it a natural sweetness, eliminating the need for refined sugar. With this healthier option, you can enjoy a guilt-free dessert without sacrificing flavor.
So go ahead, indulge in this delectable cake as a dessert, snack, or even as a sweet breakfast option! Its wholesome ingredients make it a perfect choice for everyday indulgence.
