Friday, September 8, 2023

Dates & Banana Chocolate Cake

 

This dates and banana chocolate cake is a naturally sweetened, moist, and rich treat, perfect for a guilt-free indulgence. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s packed with flavor and easy to make!


Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:


5-6 dates, soaked in lukewarm milk for 30 minutes

1 ripe banana

(Optional: ½ apple, chopped, for extra fruitiness)

⅓ cup olive oil

⅔ cup sugar (or ⅔ cup condensed milk)

1 tablespoon flax seeds (optional)

½ cup milk (adjust as needed for consistency)

(Optional: 2 tablespoons yogurt for extra moisture)


Dry Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup mixed nut and seed powder (or replace with flour)

1 teaspoon vanilla essence

1 pinch salt

4 tablespoons cocoa powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder


Toppings:

Chopped walnuts

Choco chips


Instructions


Step 1: Prepare the Wet Mixture

- Soak the dates in lukewarm milk for about 30 minutes until they soften.

- In a blender, add the soaked dates, banana, olive oil, sugar (or condensed milk), and flax seeds (if using).

- For extra fruitiness, add ½ apple or 2 tablespoons of yogurt for more moisture.

- Blend until smooth, adding ½ cup milk gradually to achieve a smooth batter.


Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, nut and seed powder, vanilla essence, salt, and cocoa powder. Mix well.

(Optionally, you can blend this dry mixture into the wet mixture for an even texture.)


Step 3: Add the Leavening Agents

- Stir in baking soda and baking powder. Mix gently but thoroughly.


Step 4: Bake the Cake

- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.

- Sprinkle chopped walnuts and choco chips on top and lightly press them into the batter.


Bake at:

- 160°C (320°F) for 40-45 minutes in a large fan oven

- 180°C (356°F) for 40-45 minutes in a convection oven

-Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick—it should come out clean.


Step 5: Cool & Serve

- Let the cake cool before slicing. Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea!


Tips:💁

Fruitier Cake? Add ½ apple in the wet mixture for a natural sweetness boost.

Extra Moist? Mix in 2 tablespoons of yogurt for a softer texture.

No Cocoa Powder? Swap it out and add ½ teaspoon cinnamon + ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for a warm banana spice cake.