Rich and Decadent Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe
Greetings, dear readers! Don Over here, your friendly chef specializing in crafting delicious British cuisine. Today, I am thrilled to share with you my lightened-up chocolate pound cake recipe that is truly a game-changer in the world of dessert recipes.
If you are a true-blue chocoholic searching for the ultimate healthy chocolate bundt cake, then this recipe is just what you need. This masterpiece would not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also keep you guilt-free at the same time.
Gone are the days where you had to worry about high calories and unhealthy ingredients in your pound cake. With appropriate ingredient tweaks and careful baking techniques, I have successfully reconstructed this classic dessert recipe into a lighter and healthier version without compromising on the taste.
But let me warn you – this cake is a showstopper! Each slice of this moist chocolate delight with its rich chocolate flavor and velvety texture is bound to leave your taste buds wanting more.
So roll up those sleeves and dive with me into making the perfect lightened-up chocolate pound cake that even Rudolph’s reindeer would love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you craving for a rich and moist chocolate pound cake, but worried about the calorie overload? Look no further than this Lightened-up Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe!
This recipe offers a healthier take on the classic chocolate pound cake, without compromising on the decadent taste and texture. We’ve substituted some of the high-fat ingredients with low-fat alternatives, such as Egg Beaters egg substitute and fat-free cream cheese, resulting in a lighter and more nutritious dessert that still delivers all the flavor and indulgence you crave.
But don’t be fooled by its lightened-up version – this chocolate pound cake is still unbelievably moist, fluffy and rich with deep chocolate flavor. The combination of cocoa powder in the batter and espresso powder in the icing imparts bold, complex notes to every bite. It’s a true winner!
What’s more, this easy-to-follow recipe comes together quickly with just ten simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry already. You can also switch up some of the ingredients or tweak the recipe to fit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
So go ahead, indulge in a slice of guilt-free pleasure with our Lightened-up Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe- you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the Ingredient List! You will need 3 cups of sugar, 1 1/2 cups of unsalted butter softened, 5 eggs, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of water.
We want to achieve the ultimate healthy chocolate pound cake and we are swapping some of the denser ingredients with better alternatives. In this recipe, we are using Egg Beaters egg substitute instead of regular eggs, fat-free cream cheese instead of full-fat version and unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the butter. These changes help to create a healthier chocolate bundt cake that still retains its indulgent essence. Don Over, the pastry chef behind this recipe who has mastered numerous dessert recipes over his 20 years in the field suggests incorporating espresso powder for an added depth to enhance the flavor of your cake.
One thing to keep in mind when measuring your ingredients is that it’s important to be precise. Even a small deviation from the recipe can affect its final outcome. For the flour measurement specifically use a spoon to put flour into a measuring cup, then level off the extra with a knife. This will help you avoid adding too much flour than required which can result in a dry and dense cake.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get into the good stuff – the actual recipe! I promise that this healthier version of a chocolate pound cake does not disappoint. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to create this lightened up chocolate pound cake masterpiece:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 5 Egg Beaters egg substitute
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces fat-free cream cheese, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Before you start baking, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a Bundt cake pan with cooking spray. Then, dust the pan with flour, tapping out any excess.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and unsweetened cocoa powder.
Step 3: Bring Together Wet Ingredients
Using an electric mixer on high speed or by hand using a whisk, mix together the water and unsweetened applesauce in another bowl until homogeneous.
Step 4: Add In The Eggs and Vanilla Extracts
Once mixed well, stir in the Egg Beaters egg substitute and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Cream The Butter And Cream Cheese With Sugar
In yet another bowl (indeed we have three!), beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter with your electric blender on medium-high speed (using a paddle attachment if you have one), until lightened in color which should take approximately 3 minutes. Now, add in the sugar little by little (about 1/4 cup at a time into the creamed butter mixture) to allow the mixture to blend smoothly. Continue mixing until light and fluffy, another 3 minutes or so.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Once the creamed mixture is smooth, fold the dry ingredients from the first bowl into it very gently, alternating with the wet mixture from bowl two, until fully incorporated. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl between each addition.
Step 7: Pour and Bake Batter
Transfer your chocolate cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan you set aside earlier. Smooth out any lumps and bumps along with its surface. Then put it in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes if you want a denser cake or 50-55 minutes if you want a lighter cake in texture. The cake will be ready when a toothpick comes out clean after piercing its center.
Step 8: Cool
Once
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch things up with your lightened up chocolate pound cake recipe? Luckily, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try to give your cake a unique twist.
First of all, if you prefer a more moist chocolate pound cake, consider swapping out some of the butter for unsweetened applesauce. This will help keep the cake moist while also reducing the overall calories and fat content. You could also use low-fat cream cheese instead of fat-free cream cheese to add a bit more richness to the frosting.
If you’re not a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead. Just keep in mind that using sweeter chocolate may increase the overall sugar content of your cake.
For those who want a caffeine boost with their chocolate fix, try adding in some espresso powder to the batter or frosting. This will give your chocolate pound cake a rich, mocha-like flavor.
Want to incorporate some fruit into your pound cake? Consider adding fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter before baking. Just make sure to fold them in carefully so they don’t sink down to the bottom.
Finally, if you’re feeling creative and want to take your lightened up chocolate pound cake to the next level, try baking it in a different shape than the classic bundt pan. You could make individual cupcakes, a loaf cake or even a reindeer-shaped pan for Christmas!
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate them while still giving you that ultimate healthy chocolate experience that’s perfect for any dessert occasion!
Serving and Pairing
Let’s talk about serving and pairing options for this lightened up chocolate pound cake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat after dinner or a special addition to your next potluck, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
For serving, I recommend cutting the cake into thick slices and dusting them with cocoa powder or powdered sugar. You could also top the slices with fresh berries such as blueberries or raspberries to give it a burst of freshness.
If you want to get even more creative, try serving this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or low-fat ice cream. These toppings add an extra dimension of flavor and creaminess to the already rich and indulgent cake.
When it comes to pairing, there are several options depending on your taste preferences. For those who enjoy a stronger flavor, serve this cake with a cup of espresso or dark roast coffee. The bitterness of coffee can cut through the sweetness of the chocolate creating a perfect harmony in your mouth.
For those who prefer something lighter, try pairing it with a glass of cold milk or tea. These beverages will help balance out the richness of the cake while still complementing its flavors.
Alternatively, turn this dessert into an elegant centerpiece by creating a chocolate bundt cake or even a reindeer cake that can be used as an eye-catching element for your holiday table setting!
No matter how you serve it, this healthier chocolate pound cake recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and will have everyone asking for more!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve made this decadent chocolate pound cake, you may be wondering how to make it last a little longer. Luckily, it’s not too difficult to store and reheat your precious cake without sacrificing its quality.
If you want to make this cake in advance, it’s best to let it cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a sealed container or resealable bag. This should keep the cake fresh for up to three days at room temperature or up to a week if stored in the refrigerator.
To reheat individual slices of pound cake, simply pop them into the microwave for 10-15 seconds on high power. If you prefer to reheat the whole cake, warm it in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help revive its fluffy texture and restore its chocolatey taste.
If you find yourself with leftover pound cake and want to try something different, consider making a delicious trifle dessert. Layer slices of the chocolate pound cake with whipped cream and fresh berries or blueberry coulis, and top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an exquisite reindeer cake experience.
No matter how you choose to store, reheat, or repurpose your lightened-up chocolate pound cake, it’s sure to be a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth while maintaining a low-calorie count. So go ahead and indulge without any remorse!
Tips for Perfect Results
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I’ve learned that besides good recipe ingredients and measurement accuracy, there are some other secrets to make the magic happen in your kitchen. So, let me share with you some tips that will lead you to have a fantastic lightened-up chocolate pound cake recipe.
Firstly, as tempting it may seem, please try not to overmix the batter, as vigorous mixing can cause gluten to develop, making the cake dense and heavy. I suggest beating every ingredient at its proper time and speed until it’s just combined.
Secondly, do not forget to preheat your oven for 30 minutes before baking your lightened up chocolate pound cake recipe. It makes sure the cake will have consistent temperature and even baking.
Thirdly, when measuring flour, cocoa powder, sugar or any dry ingredients use the spoon and level method because scooping can heavily increase the quantity of the ingredients which can cause a dense cake.
Fourthly, if you want to add a little more depth of chocolate flavor to your lightened chocolate pound cake recipe, add half a teaspoon of espresso powder. It doesn’t add coffee taste but creates an enhanced chocolatey flavor that will make everyone love your cake.
Fifthly, feel free to make some design on top such as adding seasonal fruits like blueberries or sprinkle some unsweetened cocoa powder on very top before serving your healthier chocolate bundt.
Lastly but not least, remember every oven is different. Set a timer according to instructed time but keep checking every five minutes after 15 minutes for doneness using a toothpick or knife until it comes out clean when inserted in the middle.
Follow these tips while making this healthier chocolate pound cake recipe; you’ll end up with the ultimate healthy and delicious dessert recipe that everyone will love!
FAQ
Before I conclude this recipe article, let me share with you some frequently asked questions about making the Lightened up Chocolate Pound Cake. Knowing the answers to these questions can help ensure that your cake comes out perfectly and you get to impress your family and friends with your baking skills. So, let’s dive into the FAQs now!
How do I make my pound cake less dense?
As a chef who specializes in British cuisine, I highly recommend using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for your cake recipes. Cake flour has a lower protein content and finer texture, which will make your cakes lighter and fluffier.
Another tip for achieving a moist and tender cake is to add sour cream to your batter. The acidity in the sour cream helps to tenderize the gluten in the flour and adds moisture to the cake.
When it comes to creaming butter and sugar, be sure to use room temperature butter and don’t overdo it. Over-creaming can cause the butter to become too soft, resulting in a dense and heavy cake. Instead, cream the butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.
Adding a touch of baking powder or baking soda can also help to lighten your cake. These leaveners react with the acid in your batter to create air pockets, which will help your cake rise.
To further enhance the texture and moisture of your cake, add a small amount of oil to your batter. This will help to lubricate the gluten strands, resulting in a tender crumb.
However, be careful not to over-mix your batter as this can lead to a tough and chewy cake. Mix until your ingredients are just combined and no dry flour remains.
Finally, when it comes to baking your cake, be sure not to over-bake it. Over-baking can cause your cake to become dry and crumbly. Instead, check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, it is ready.
For an extra touch of sweetness and moisture, brush your cake with simple syrup or other liquid. This will add an additional layer of flavor and keep your cake moist even after baking.
What does baking soda do to a pound cake?
When baking a cake, it is important to use the right ingredients to get the perfect rise and texture. Baking soda reacts quickly to acidic ingredients, providing immediate leavening. On the other hand, baking powder continues to react with the heat in the oven, giving a boost to the cake’s rise. Using a combination of these two leavening agents is ideal for achieving the desired result in most cake recipes.
Why is my pound cake so dense?
If you find your cake to be dense and heavy, it is likely due to insufficient incorporation of air into the butter and sugar mixture. This could be the result of insufficient creaming time or adding the sugar, eggs, or flour too quickly.
What is 7UP pound cake?
Bring the nostalgia home with a timeless dessert favorite, the 7UP pound cake, whose golden-brown crust entraps a velvety and moist texture that’s infused with a hint of lemon flavor. The secret ingredient that distinguishes it from your standard recipe is the inclusion of the 7UP soda, attributed to its unique taste that’s sweet, tangy, and buttery. Adding a finishing touch of sweet-tart lemon glaze really complements the taste, making it an all-round delightful bite!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a way to indulge in some seriously delicious chocolate cake while also keeping an eye on your health goals, this lightened up chocolate pound cake recipe is the perfect choice. By using low-calorie substitutes like Egg Beaters egg substitute and unsweetened applesauce, as well as butter and cream cheese that have been lightened up, you can enjoy all the rich, satisfying flavor of a classic pound cake without the guilt.
So why not give it a try? With its moist and tender texture, deep chocolate flavor, and easy preparation, this lightened up chocolate pound cake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving it as a special treat for friends and family or just enjoying a slice alongside your morning coffee, this healthier chocolate bundt cake is sure to delight. So go ahead and indulge yourself – with this ultimate healthy chocolate pound cake recipe, there’s no need to compromise on flavor or health.
Lightened up Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (18 ounce) box Duncan Hines Moist Deluxe Butter Recipe Fudge Cake Mix
- 1 (8 ounce) package fat free cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup Egg Beaters egg substitute
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl combine all ingredients.
- Mix on low for one minute, then scrape sides of bowl.
- Mix on medium for two minutes or until batter is nicely blended.
- Grease a 10-inch tube pan then lightly dust with flour. Pour batter into pan.
- Bake for 58-62 minutes, or until cake springs back when pressed and begins to pull away from sides of pan.
- Cool 20 minutes, then turn cake out of pan.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.