Directions to follow

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan to ensure a perfect release.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the applesauce, mashed bananas, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. If you’re feeling indulgent, fold in the dark chocolate chips for a rich finish.
6. Pour the luscious batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top for even baking.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

Now that you have this wonderfully moist cake ready, how should you serve it? A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives it a pretty finish, or you can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, which adds a bright contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. For an extra touch, drizzle on some warm chocolate sauce!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Chocolate Banana Applesauce Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, you can refrigerate it for about a week. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and pop them in the freezer; they should last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pointers to ensure your cake comes out perfectly every time:

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness; the darker the skin, the better they’ll mash.
• If you’re short on apple sauce, you can substitute it with an equal amount of plain yogurt.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy—stir just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try with this recipe:

• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Incorporate a half cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
• Try a vanilla or almond-flavored yogurt instead of plain for a flavor boost.
• For a festive touch, consider topping the cake with a cream cheese frosting or a rich ganache for special occasions.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this cake?

The preparation time is around 15 minutes, with about 40-45 minutes of baking time.

Can I use applesauce from a jar?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the healthy qualities intact.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes! You can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months. Reheat them as needed for a quick treat.