Low Calorie Chocolate Cake

Traditionally every person admires chocolate cake as a timeless dessert flavor. It’s rich, soft, and comforting. The sort of traditional chocolate cake poses dietary challenges since it contains many calories and unhealthy substances. The good news? You don’t have to give it up. A low calorie chocolate cake lets you enjoy all the flavor without the extra sugar and fat.

The cake uses just basic elements that combine applesauce without sugar along with natural sweeteners and mild flour substitutions. Eating this sweet dessert falls within your health objectives. People who want to consume a dessert free of sluggishness alongside weight loss seekers or anyone seeking healthy sweet choices can enjoy this nutritious chocolate cake.

The best part? The taste of this modified version will satisfy your traditional chocolate cake cravings. This delicious chocolate dessert features soft texture and moistened consistency with deep chocolate taste. No fancy equipment or complicated steps—just real ingredients and easy instructions. This healthy chocolate cake serves as an ideal choice for birthdays together with family dinners and late-night dessert preferences requiring a light sweet snack.

This guilt-free dessert experience awaits you. This piece investigates what benefits this particular cake offers.

Key Benefits

Choosing a low calorie chocolate cake doesn’t mean giving up on taste. It means making a smarter choice that still feels like a treat. Here are a few reasons why this cake is worth making:

1. Lower in Fat, Still Rich in Flavor

Many chocolate cakes rely on butter or oil for texture. This version skips the heavy fats and uses ingredients like Greek yogurt or applesauce to keep the cake moist. You still get that chocolatey goodness without the greasy after-feel.

2. Fewer Calories Per Slice

This recipe uses natural sweeteners and portion-friendly ingredients, so each serving has fewer calories. It’s perfect if you’re counting macros, on a calorie-restricted plan, or just trying to enjoy sweets more mindfully.

3. Better for Blood Sugar

Using alternatives like stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar can help keep blood sugar more stable. That’s a win for anyone watching their sugar intake, especially those managing prediabetes or simply avoiding sugar spikes.

4. Clean Eating Friendly

If you’re into clean eating, this cake fits the bill. You can choose whole grain or almond flour and avoid processed ingredients. It’s proof that healthy desserts don’t have to be boring or bland.

5. Easy to Customize

Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or aiming for a keto version, this recipe can easily be adjusted. You can swap flours, sweeteners, or even add protein powder to suit your needs without losing texture or taste.

6. Great for Portion Control

This cake bakes beautifully in a small pan or even as cupcakes, making it easier to serve up single portions. That’s helpful when you’re trying not to overdo it but still want something sweet on hand.

This cake gives you the freedom to enjoy dessert without worry. It’s satisfying, simple, and fits well into a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients for Low Calorie Chocolate Cake

This low calorie chocolate cake uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that help keep the calorie count low without losing moisture or flavor. Most of these ingredients are everyday staples you can find without much effort. Below is what you’ll need for one small cake (around 8 slices):

Dry Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  (Look for cacao powder for a deeper chocolate taste and added antioxidants.)
  
• ¾ cup whole wheat flour
  (You can swap this with almond flour for a gluten-free version.)
  
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
  

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
  (Use flax eggs or egg substitute for a vegan version.)
  
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  (Helps keep the cake soft without using added fats.)
  
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  (Can use dairy-free yogurt for a lighter or dairy-free option.)
  
• ¼ cup maple syrup or liquid stevia
  (Choose your preferred natural sweetener.)
  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
  (Any low-fat or plant-based milk will work.)
  

Optional Add-ins:

• ¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips
  (Go for no sugar added or stevia-sweetened chocolate if you want to keep it cleaner.)
  
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  (Optional, for a protein-packed twist.)
  

These ingredients work together to create a rich, moist texture while cutting out excess oil and sugar. The applesauce and yogurt keep things soft, the cocoa brings deep chocolate flavor, and the natural sweetener lightens it up without sacrificing taste.

How to make low calorie chocolate cake

Making this low calorie chocolate cake is simple and doesn’t require any special baking skills. With just a few steps, you’ll have a moist, delicious cake ready to enjoy. Here’s how to put it all together:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to make removal easier.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  
• ¾ cup whole wheat flour
  
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
  

Whisking the dry ingredients first ensures the cocoa powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, which helps the cake rise nicely.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the wet ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
  
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  
• ¼ cup maple syrup (or liquid stevia for a sugar-free version)
  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
  

Mix the wet ingredients together until the texture is smooth and uniform. You’ll notice the yogurt and applesauce help create a creamy, soft batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring lightly to combine. Don’t over-mix! This will ensure a light and fluffy texture.

Step 5: Optional Add-ins

If you’d like to boost the flavor or add some protein, gently stir in mini dark chocolate chips or protein powder.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to smooth it into an even layer. Put the cake in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Once the toothpick comes out free of batter, the cake is fully baked.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

When the cake is finished baking, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost or top it as you prefer (more on that in the next section).

Pro Tips and Variations

To ensure your low calorie chocolate cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and fun variations that can enhance your baking experience. Whether you want to switch up the flavors or adjust the texture, these ideas will give you plenty of room to personalize your cake.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cake

1. Measure Accurately
   Accurate measurements are key when baking, especially with low calorie recipes. Even slight differences in the amount of ingredients can affect how the cake turns out. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients, or spoon and level your flour and cocoa powder when measuring.
   
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
   Make sure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more easily with the other ingredients and results in a smoother batter.
   
3. Don’t Over-Mix the Batter
   When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, stir only until they’re barely incorporated. Over-mixing can make the cake dense, which can affect its texture. Gentle stirring is all you need for a light, fluffy result.
   
4. Test for Doneness Early
   Since oven temperatures vary, start testing the cake’s doneness at around 25 minutes. To test, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out free from batter, with a few crumbs being fine.
   
5. Let It Cool
   Allow the cake to cool completely before serving or frosting. If you try to frost a warm cake, the frosting may melt, and the cake may crumble. Cooling it on a wire rack helps prevent this and ensures a firmer, more stable texture.
   

Variations to Try

1. Chocolate-Orange Twist
   For a refreshing citrus flavor, add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the batter. The zest pairs beautifully with the chocolate, creating a unique flavor combination.
   
2. Moist Chocolate Cake with Applesauce
   For extra moisture, you can substitute applesauce for some of the yogurt or even the maple syrup. This keeps the cake light while adding a natural sweetness.
   
3. Add a Protein Boost
   To turn this cake into a high-protein snack, add 1-2 scoops of protein powder to the batter. It will add a slight flavor, so choose a protein powder with minimal sweetness if possible.
   
4. Gluten-Free Option
   For those with dietary restrictions, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend’s recommended ratio for replacing wheat flour, as some brands require more or less.
   
5. Low Sugar or Sugar-Free Cake
   If you’re cutting out sugar, opt for stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol as a sweetener. These alternatives will help you keep the cake low calorie while maintaining the sweetness you crave.
   
6. Mini Chocolate Chips or Chopped Dark Chocolate
   If you love chocolate chips, fold in 1/4 cup of mini dark chocolate chips into the batter before baking. The mini chips will melt perfectly into the cake, giving it bursts of rich chocolate flavor throughout.
   
7. Dairy-Free Option
   For a dairy-free version, simply replace the Greek yogurt and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and almond milk. Make sure any chocolate chips you use are dairy-free as well.
   
8. Frosting Variations
   While this cake is delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level with some low-calorie frosting ideas:
   
   • Greek Yogurt Frosting: Combine plain Greek yogurt with a small amount of powdered stevia and cocoa powder for a creamy frosting that’s both light and rich.
     
   • Avocado Chocolate Frosting: Blend avocado with cocoa powder, vanilla, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a creamy and healthier alternative to traditional buttercream.
     

Serve It Your Way

This low calorie chocolate cake is versatile and can be served in many ways. Whether you’re having it as a dessert after a meal or as a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, here are some ideas for how to serve it:

• Cake with Berries: Add fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries on top for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
  
• A Slice with Coffee: Pair a slice with a cup of black coffee or green tea for a lighter, more balanced treat.
  
• Make it a Cake Roll: For a fun twist, roll up the cake with a light frosting or whipped cream in the middle to create a cake roll.

Serving Suggestions

Once your low calorie chocolate cake is baked and ready to serve, the fun part begins! There are plenty of ways to enjoy it, whether you’re having it as a light snack or turning it into a centerpiece for a gathering. Here are some creative and delicious ideas to serve your cake:

1. Pair with Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruit adds a vibrant, juicy contrast to the rich chocolate cake. Here are a few fruity options:

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offer a burst of sweetness and color that brighten the cake’s flavor.
  
• Bananas: Sliced bananas add a creamy texture and natural sweetness, making a perfect complement to the chocolate.
  
• Citrus Fruits: A few slices of fresh orange or lemon can provide a slight tangy note, which balances the cake’s richness and adds a refreshing touch.
  

2. Top with Yogurt or Whipped Cream

To elevate the cake, consider adding a spoonful of yogurt or whipped cream. These light toppings enhance the cake’s flavor while keeping things creamy and indulgent.

• Greek Yogurt: Opt for unsweetened Greek yogurt for a smooth, tangy topping that’s full of protein.
  
• Whipped Cream: A light whipped topping made from coconut cream or a low-calorie whipped option provides a fluffy texture without the heaviness of regular frosting.
  

3. Pair with Coffee or Tea

A warm beverage goes wonderfully with a slice of low calorie chocolate cake, making it the perfect treat for an afternoon snack or dessert.

• Coffee: Whether you choose a classic black coffee or a creamy latte, coffee’s deep flavors blend well with the richness of the chocolate cake.
  
• Tea: For a lighter option, enjoy your cake with a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, which adds a refreshing contrast to the cake’s texture.
  

4. Make a Cake Roll

If you want to serve something a little different, consider turning your cake into a cake roll. This option is great for special occasions or simply for a fun dessert.

• Cream Cheese Filling: Lighten up the filling with low-fat cream cheese for a smooth, tangy contrast inside the roll.
  
• Fruit Filling: Spread a thin layer of fruit puree, such as strawberry or raspberry, inside the rolled cake for a burst of natural sweetness.
  

5. Mini Cakes or Cupcakes

For smaller servings, turning your low calorie chocolate cake into mini cakes or cupcakes makes for easy portion control and a fun way to serve guests.

• Mini Cupcakes: Decorate with a tiny bit of whipped cream or Greek yogurt, and add a few chocolate chips or sprinkles for extra flair.
  
• Chopped Nuts: Top each mini cake with chopped almonds, walnuts, or a few mini chocolate chips to add some crunch.
  

6. Serve with a Refreshing Beverage

Pair your cake with a light, refreshing drink to keep things balanced. These options won’t add many calories but will make the cake feel even more satisfying.

• Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea with a twist of lemon or a sprig of mint pairs well with the chocolate, offering a cool and light finish to your dessert.
  
• Sparkling Water: For a fizzy and refreshing contrast, try sparkling water with a hint of lime or berry essence.
  
• Cold Brew Coffee: Smooth and rich cold brew coffee is a fantastic accompaniment to the chocolate cake, especially if you enjoy coffee’s bold flavors.
  

7. Make a Cake Parfait

For a fun twist, layer pieces of your low calorie chocolate cake with yogurt and fresh fruit to create a parfait. This transforms the cake into a visually appealing and fun-to-eat dessert.

• Layered Parfait: Create layers of cake, yogurt, and fruit in a glass for a sweet and creamy treat.
  
• Individual Servings: Serve parfaits in individual jars or dessert cups for a personalized treat that guests will love.
  

With these serving suggestions, you can enjoy your low calorie chocolate cake in a variety of ways that will satisfy your cravings without overindulging. Whether you’re keeping it simple or adding fun toppings, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion for Low Calorie Chocolate Cake

In conclusion, this low calorie chocolate cake offers a delicious and healthier way to satisfy your sweet cravings. People who desire chocolate delights alongside nutrition goals should find this eating option very appealing. The few simple components let you make this simple recipe which accommodates numerous variations in taste preferences.

The combination of applesauce with stevia as sweet alternatives enables you to prepare a dessert that maintains equal satisfaction levels without packing excessive calories. You can personalize this cake to your liking through different topping and flavoring options according to your preferences.

So, why not enjoy a slice of this tasty, low calorie chocolate cake? The chocolatey dessert provides a tempting option to satisfy chocolate cravings without torturing your health goals. Your party will always find joy in this dessert because it can be served by itself or with fresh fruit or made into a delightful parfait.

For more insights into preparing a healthy chocolate cake, you can explore this resource from Texas A&M University: healthy chocolate cake.​

Low Calorie Rice Cakes

Sophie

Uncover the secrets to enjoying delicious low calorie rice cakes while keeping your diet in check.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 6 Rice cakes

Calories 50 kcal

Ingredients

  

Basic Ingredients for Homemade Low Calorie Rice Cakes:

• 1 cup cooked brown rice or use white rice if preferred, but brown rice offers more fiber
• 1 large egg white acts as a natural binder
• 1 tablespoon water optional, to adjust texture
• Pinch of sea salt for light flavor
• These four ingredients are all you really need to form your own low calorie rice cakes. You can shape and bake them for a crisp texture without using oil or butter which keeps the calories low.

Optional Add-Ins (For Flavor Without the Extra Calories):

• Chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a savory version
• Cinnamon or vanilla for a subtle sweetness
• Nutritional yeast for a cheesy, plant-based flavor
• Sesame or chia seeds add crunch and healthy fats, in small amounts

Instructions

 

Cook the Rice

• Start by cooking 1 cup of brown rice (or white rice if you prefer). If you’re using leftover rice, that works too! Just make sure the rice is fully cooked and not too sticky.

Prepare the Egg Whites

• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white until it’s slightly frothy. This helps to bind the rice together and give your rice cakes a firm texture.

Combine the Rice and Egg White

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the whisked egg white. Add a pinch of sea salt for a mild flavor, or any spices you prefer. Mix everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the egg white.

Shape the Rice Cakes

• Take small portions of the rice mixture and shape them into compact rounds. You can use your hands or a spoon to help mold the mixture into the desired size, typically around 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

Bake or Pan-Fry

• For a healthier option, bake the rice cakes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the rice cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy on the edges.
• Alternatively, if you prefer a crispier texture, you can pan-fry the rice cakes in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly spray the pan with cooking spray and cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

• Let the rice cakes cool down a bit before serving to help them firm up. This step ensures they become crispier and have the perfect texture.

Video

Notes

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 rice cakes
• Calories: Approximately 40-50 calories per rice cake

 

Keyword low calorie rice cakes

FAQs about Low Calorie Chocolate Cake

Craving more guilt-free chocolate indulgence? Discover our Vegan Chocolate Desserts for a variety of plant-based treats that are as delicious as they are wholesome.​