Are you ready to experience a chocolate cake so rich and decadent, it'll redefine your dessert expectations? But what if I told you this unbelievably delicious cake is also surprisingly healthy? Yes, you read that right! This Black Bean Chocolate Cake recipe is packed with nutrients, naturally moist, and unbelievably easy to make. It’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence for chocolate lovers seeking delicious and healthy meals, a quick dinner alternative, or just a fantastic homemade treat. Prepare to be amazed!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups cooked black beans, rinsed and drained well (about one 15-ounce can)
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar)
- 1 cup boiling water
Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preparing the Cake:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. This ensures your cake layers release easily.
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Blend the Beans: In a food processor or blender, puree the black beans until completely smooth. This is crucial for a smooth cake texture; any remaining chunks will be noticeable.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined to prevent pockets of baking soda or baking powder.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
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Add Black Beans & Buttermilk: Add the pureed black beans and buttermilk to the batter, mixing until just combined.
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Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour in the boiling water and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined. The boiling water helps create a wonderfully moist and tender crumb.
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Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting:
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Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
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Add Sugar & Cocoa: Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until smooth and creamy.
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Add Buttermilk & Vanilla: Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake:
Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of frosting. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake. You can get creative with your frosting design!
Tips & Variations:
- For a richer chocolate flavor: Use dark cocoa powder.
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and use vegan butter for the frosting.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or chili powder to the batter for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides an estimated nutritional value and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise information based on your ingredients. Expect a lower calorie and fat content compared to traditional chocolate cakes due to the inclusion of black beans.
This black bean chocolate cake is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional cakes. It's a wonderful recipe for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and those seeking delicious dishes perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!