Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as an egg replacer)
  • 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for added moisture and fluffiness)

For the Creamy Chocolate Frosting

  • 1 cup coconut cream (chilled overnight)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

  • Vegan chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries (like raspberries or strawberries)
  • Chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts)

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, serves 12)

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 3g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • SmartPoints: 7 (based on the current WW system)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  1. Prep Your Kitchen:
    • Ensure you have all the ingredients on hand. Measure everything out beforehand to streamline the baking process.
  2. Select Quality Ingredients:
    • Use high-quality cocoa powder and plant-based milk for the best flavor. Fresh applesauce adds moisture and enhances the cake’s texture.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

  1. Set the Temperature:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agents evenly.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1 cup of almond milk, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined.
  3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

  1. Prepare the Baking Pans:
    • Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with oil or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Pour the Batter:
    • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
  3. Bake:
    • Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool the Cakes:
    • Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Chocolate Frosting

  1. Chill Coconut Cream:
    • While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. Start by chilling a can of coconut cream overnight. This helps separate the cream from the liquid.
  2. Whip the Coconut Cream:
    • In a mixing bowl, scoop out the solid coconut cream. Use an electric mixer to whip it until fluffy and light.
  3. Add Cocoa and Sweetness:
    • Gradually add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the whipped cream. Continue to mix until the frosting is creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

  1. Layer the Cakes:
    • Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
  2. Add the Second Layer:
    • Carefully place the second cake layer on top.
  3. Frost the Top and Sides:
    • Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula for a polished look.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. Add Toppings:
    • For an extra touch, garnish with vegan chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or chopped nuts.
  2. Slice and Serve:
    • Slice the cake into 12 equal pieces. Serve to your guests and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Customization Options

Flavor Variations

  • Coffee Infusion: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter for a mocha flavor.
  • Mint Chocolate: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint chocolate experience.

Dietary Adjustments

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Ensure that other ingredients, such as baking powder, are also gluten-free.

Health Benefits

  • Plant-Based Goodness: This cake is entirely vegan, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
  • Nutritious Ingredients: Applesauce adds fiber and moisture, while coconut cream provides healthy fats.

Meal Prep Tips

  • Make Ahead: This cake can be baked a day in advance. Store the layers in an airtight container until ready to frost and serve.
  • Freezing: You can freeze individual slices for later enjoyment. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Vegan Creamy Chocolate Cake is the perfect dessert for any chocolate lover. With its rich flavor and fluffy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at the table, regardless of their dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Now that you have this detailed recipe, you’re ready to create a masterpiece in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and embark on the delightful journey of making this vegan chocolate cake. Enjoy the process and savor each bite!