Healthy Chocolate Sheet Cake!

Here’s a recipe for a Healthy Chocolate Sheet Cake, a lighter version of the classic dessert, packed with rich chocolate flavor and a touch of goodness! It’s made with healthier ingredients but still moist and delicious!

Ingredients (Serves 12-16 slices):

For the cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce (or Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1/4 cup (60g) honey or maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water
• 1/2 cup (80g) dark chocolate chips (optional)

For the frosting:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or unsalted butter)
• 1/4 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Make the cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined.
• Stir in the boiling water until the batter becomes smooth (it will be thin).
• If using, fold in the dark chocolate chips.
• Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the frosting:

• In a small saucepan, heat the almond milk and coconut oil (or butter) over medium heat until melted and warm.
• Whisk in the cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
• Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar (if using), adjusting the sweetness to your liking. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

3. Frost the cake:

• Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
• If desired, sprinkle additional chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder on top.

4. Serve and enjoy:

• Slice the cake into 12-16 pieces and enjoy a healthier, guilt-free chocolate treat!

Tips:

• Dairy-free option: Use a dairy-free milk and coconut oil for the frosting to keep it completely dairy-free.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of whole wheat flour.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use maple syrup as the sweetener.

This Healthy Chocolate Sheet Cake is a great way to enjoy a classic dessert with a healthier twist, without compromising on flavor!