The Secret to a Moist, Healthy Chocolate Cake? Sweet Potatoes!
Who knew the humble sweet potato could transform into a decadent chocolate cake? This surprising ingredient adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a nutritional boost to your favourite dessert.
Why This Recipe Works
Unlike traditional chocolate cakes loaded with refined sugar and butter, this version uses:
- Mashed sweet potato for natural sweetness and fibre
- Dark cocoa powder for intense chocolate flavour
- Healthier fat alternatives without sacrificing texture
Ingredients You'll Need
For this surprisingly simple cake:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 500g)
- 200g self-raising flour
- 50g cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 150g coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 100ml olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
Step-by-Step Method
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel, chop and boil until tender. Drain well and mash until smooth.
- Mix dry ingredients: Sift together flour, cocoa powder and baking powder.
- Combine wet ingredients: Whisk eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla until creamy.
- Bring it together: Fold in mashed sweet potato, then gently incorporate dry ingredients.
- Bake: Pour into a lined 20cm tin and bake at 180°C (160°C fan) for 35-40 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake works beautifully:
- Dusted with cocoa powder for a simple finish
- With a dollop of Greek yoghurt for contrast
- Topped with fresh berries for extra nutrition
- As cupcakes for portion-controlled treats
The Health Benefits You Won't Believe
While it tastes indulgent, this cake offers surprising advantages:
- Higher in fibre: Sweet potatoes provide slow-release energy
- Rich in vitamins: Packed with vitamin A and antioxidants
- Lower GI: More stable blood sugar response than traditional cake
Perfect for when you want something sweet without the sugar crash!
