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4 Ingredient Healthier Chocolate Cake Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

This 4 Ingredient Healthier Chocolate Cake is a moist, fudgy dessert made with ripe bananas, cocoa powder, eggs, and maple syrup. It’s a simple, naturally sweetened treat perfect for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence with minimal ingredients and no refined sugars.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus chilling time
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 383 grams overripe bananas without peels (approximately 1.5 cups + 3 tbsp banana puree)
  • 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (54 g) Dutch process cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tbsp (1.5 fl oz/44 ml) maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 6-inch round springform pan with non-stick cooking spray, then line the bottom with a parchment paper round. Cut a long strip of parchment and line the inner sides of the pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Blend Ingredients: Place the peeled bananas, Dutch process cocoa powder, eggs, and maple syrup into a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.
  3. Pour and Bake: Pour the smooth batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the cake is fully set — the surface should no longer be liquid and will look puffed with some cracks.
  4. Cool and Chill: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then place it uncovered in the refrigerator for several hours. Chilling firms up the moist, fudgy cake, making it easier to cut and serving as a texture enhancer.
  5. Remove and Serve: When ready, carefully loosen the cake from the springform pan with a spatula before releasing the sides gently. Optionally, decorate the cake with your favorite frosting or toppings before slicing.
  6. Storage: Cut the cake with a large sharp knife. Store any uneaten portions wrapped in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture, which helps avoid added refined sugars.
  • Chilling the cake after baking is critical for a firm, fudgy texture.
  • The Dutch process cocoa powder provides a richer chocolate flavor and darker color than natural cocoa.
  • You can frost this cake with your favorite healthy frosting or enjoy it plain.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free and free of added sugars, making it a healthier dessert option.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free