Treat yourself to a light and fluffy vanilla cake that’s both delicious and nutritious! Made with almond and coconut flour, this gluten-free dessert is naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect guilt-free indulgence.
- 1 cup almond flour
Almond flour is a gluten-free, low-carb flour alternative rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It provides a good dose of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative stress, and magnesium, which is beneficial for heart health.
2. 1/2 cup coconut flour/ Organic flour
Coconut flour is another gluten-free flour that is high in fiber. It helps keep the cake moist while providing a low glycemic index option, which is great for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. It also offers healthy fats and supports digestive health due to its fibre content.
3. 1/2 tsp baking powder
Baking powder helps the cake rise and creates a light, fluffy texture. It ensures the cake’s texture without adding any nutritional value, but it’s essential for structure.
4. 1/4 tsp baking soda
Baking soda works with the baking powder to help the cake rise, ensuring it has a soft texture. It also acts as a pH regulator, balancing the acidity of the ingredients.
5. 1/4 tsp sea salt
Sea salt enhances flavour and provides essential trace minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which are important for maintaining healthy bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function.
6. 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
Applesauce is used here to add moisture and sweetness without refined sugar. It’s a natural source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin elasticity.
7. 3 large eggs
Eggs provide a complete source of protein, which is essential for tissue repair and muscle growth. They are rich in B vitamins (especially B12), iron, and choline, all of which support energy metabolism, brain health, and red blood cell production.
8. 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, which helps prevent blood sugar spikes. It contains essential minerals like manganese and zinc, which are important for immune function and antioxidant protection.
9. 1/4 cup coconut oil (or avocado oil)
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that may help boost metabolism and provide quick energy. Alternatively, avocado oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that promote cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
10. 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor naturally without added sugar. It also has small amounts of antioxidants that contribute to overall health, supporting anti-inflammatory effects.
11. 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
Almond milk is a low-calorie, dairy-free alternative that provides a light consistency to the cake without compromising on flavor. It’s also a good source of vitamin E, which is beneficial for skin health and acts as an antioxidant.
How to make this delicious cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cake pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined. Then, pour in the almond milk and mix until the batter is smooth and thick.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Low Glycemic Index: The use of natural sweeteners like maple syrup and applesauce ensures the cake won’t spike blood sugar levels, making it a better choice for those mindful of glycemic control.
- Gluten-Free: Almond and coconut flours replace traditional wheat flour, making this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivity or following a gluten-free diet.
- Rich in Nutrients: Healthy fats from coconut oil and eggs, along with the fiber from almond and coconut flour, help support heart health, brain function, and digestive health.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like almond flour, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and applesauce provide antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
This healthy vanilla cake is a great treat that balances indulgence with nourishing, wholesome ingredients!
