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Incredible Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 55 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 9-9 squares
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Incredible Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake is a moist, flavorful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and applesauce with rich cocoa. Perfect for a guilt-free dessert or snack, this cake uses wholesome ingredients and optional mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey delight. Easy to prepare and bake in just under an hour, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthier chocolate cake.


Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana)
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional

  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened applesauce, mashed ripe banana, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
  4. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, carefully fold in the mini chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
  5. Pour and Smooth Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  6. Bake: Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute the milk with any non-dairy alternative such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
  • For extra moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of oil or Greek yogurt.
  • Using ripe bananas ensures maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • The mini chocolate chips are optional but add a delightful texture and chocolate bursts.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.