If you’re a fan of avocados and cake, get ready to indulge in a delightful and healthy treat with this chocolate avocado cake recipe. Made with ripe avocados, whole wheat flour, and sweetened with honey, this cake offers a guilt-free indulgence for any time of the day. You might be surprised, but avocados in a cake create a deliciously moist and dense texture, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cakes due to their rich source of healthy fats and nutrients.
This vegan chocolate cake is not only moist and flavorful but also gluten-free and egg-free, offering a fudgy and decadent dessert option. The combination of avocados and chocolate results in a rich and creamy cake that will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising on health benefits. So, if you’re looking for a unique and scrumptious dessert, this avocado chocolate cake is a must-try for both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Ingredients
Creating a rich and decadent chocolate avocado cake requires a mix of wholesome ingredients for the cake and a luscious frosting. Here are the exact measurements and substances you need to bring this delightful dessert to life.
For the Cake
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup almond milk
- 2 chia eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup nut butter (50g)
- 1.7 oz dairy-free chocolate (50g)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Equipment Needed
To prepare this delicious chocolate avocado cake recipe, you will need the following equipment:
- Large Mixing Bowl: Used for combining the cake ingredients.
- Food Processor or High-Speed Blender: Ideal for blending the ripe avocados into a smooth consistency.
- Small Bowl: To melt the dark chocolate for the decadent ganache.
- Round Cake Pans or Heart-Shaped Spring Form Pan: Choose based on your preference for cake shape. Ensure to line the pans with parchment paper for easy removal.
Preparation Steps
To get started on this delicious chocolate avocado cake recipe, we need to prepare the avocado puree and preheat the oven.
Preparing Avocado Puree
- In a food processor, blend 1 large ripe California avocado with 300g of light muscovado sugar until smooth.
- The mixture should achieve a velvety texture, ensuring that there are no lumps.
- This avocado-sugar blend is crucial for adding richness and moisture to our cake while enhancing its fudgy texture.
- Heat the oven to 160°C (140°C fan, gas mark 3) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking.
- Grease two 20cm sandwich tins with dairy-free sunflower spread and line the bases with parchment paper for easy removal.
- By preheating the oven and preparing the tins in advance, we set the stage for perfectly baked cakes with a moist and decadent texture.
Directions
Let’s dive into the process of creating this delightful chocolate avocado cake step by step.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 2 teaspoons of baking soda.
- Stir the dry ingredients thoroughly until well combined for a consistent batter.
Combining Wet Ingredients
- In a food processor, blend together ¼ cup of vegetable oil, a mashed ripe avocado, 2 cups of water, 2 tablespoons of distilled white vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the prepared chia eggs to the wet mixture and pulse briefly, just three times, to incorporate them evenly.
- Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients.
- Using a spatula, stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the desired texture.
- Preheat the oven to 360°F (180°C) and line a 7-inch (18 cm) round springform pan with parchment paper.
- Grease the pan’s sides lightly with oil.
- Transfer the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes until a skewer comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling.
- Once cooled, proceed to spread the vegan chocolate frosting over the cake for a delightful finish.
Assembling the Cake
Assembling the chocolate avocado cake is where the magic happens. Layering the fudgy cake with a decadent avocado-chocolate frosting creates a delightful dessert that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
Applying the Frosting
- Once the cakes have cooled, it’s time to apply the luscious avocado-chocolate frosting.
- Spread a generous amount of frosting on the top of each cake layer before stacking them.
- Repeat this step with each layer until the cakes are all stacked up.
- To complete the cake, top it off with extra chopped chocolate for a visually appealing touch.
- Allow the assembled cake to sit for a bit before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Enjoy a slice of this delicious chocolate avocado cake on its own or pair it with a cup of coffee for the perfect treat.
Storage and Preservation
After enjoying a slice or two of this decadent chocolate avocado cake, you might wonder how to store and preserve the remaining portions. Follow these simple steps to keep your cake fresh and delicious for longer:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigeration is the key. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. Ensure that the container is well sealed to maintain the cake’s freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
- Freezing: To extend the cake’s shelf life further, consider freezing individual slices or the entire cake. Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When freezing the whole cake, wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Label the packaging with the date for easy reference.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the cake’s texture and flavors.
By following these storage and preservation tips, you can enjoy your chocolate avocado cake for an extended period, ensuring that each slice tastes as fresh and delightful as the first one.
Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to enjoying this delectable chocolate avocado cake at its best, proper storage and preservation techniques are key. Here are some make-ahead tips to ensure your cake stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible:
Room Temperature Storage:
- For short-term consumption, you can store the cake at room temperature.
- Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Keep the cake in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Enjoy within a day or two to savor its moist and flavorful texture.
Refrigeration for Longer Freshness:
- To extend the freshness of your chocolate avocado cake, refrigeration is recommended.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container before placing it in the refrigerator.
- Properly stored, the cake can last for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to enhance its taste and texture.
- If you want to preserve your chocolate avocado cake for an extended period, freezing is the ideal option.
- Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for added protection.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without compromising its quality.
- Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its fudgy texture and rich flavor.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy your chocolate avocado cake at its peak freshness and savor its deliciousness whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion
I’ve shared a delectable chocolate avocado cake recipe that’s a perfect blend of health and indulgence. This moist, gluten-free, and egg-free vegan cake is a must-try for anyone looking for a guilt-free treat. With its fudgy texture and rich flavor, it’s a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike. The avocado-chocolate frosting adds a luscious touch, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Remember the make-ahead tips for storage options that keep the cake fresh and delicious for longer. Treat yourself to a slice of this chocolate avocado cake and indulge in a guilt-free dessert that’s both satisfying and wholesome.