Ingredients for the Apple Cocoa Cake

• • 4 sweet apples
  • Olive oil (for greasing the mold)

• • 4 eggs
  • 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Ingredients for the Mango Tea:

• • 2 lemon wedges
  • 1 tablespoon freeze-dried mango

• 2 tablespoons large-leaf black tea
• 1 liter of boiling water

Prep Time:

• • Apple Cocoa Cake: 15 minutes

• Mango Tea: 5 minutes

Cooking Time:

• • Apple Cocoa Cake: 45 minutes
  • Mango Tea: 4-5 minutes

Total Time:

• • Apple Cocoa Cake: 1 hour
  • Mango Tea: 5 minutes
  • Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Servings:

• The apple cocoa cake recipe yields approximately 8 slices.
• The mango tea serves about 4 people.

Estimated Kcal per Serving:

• • Apple Cocoa Cake: Approximately 150-180 kcal per slice

• Mango Tea: Approximately 20-30 kcal per cup (depending on the specific mango tea blend and lemon use)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Cocoa Cake:

1. 1. Peel and Core the Apples: Begin by peeling the apples. Cut them in half and remove the cores. Slice the apples into small pieces that will blend easily in the mixer.
   2. Grind the Apples: Place the apple pieces into a blender or food processor and pulse until smooth. You want a puree-like consistency, so blend until no large chunks remain.

1. 1. Add the Eggs and Dry Ingredients: To the apple puree, add the eggs, 5 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Blend the mixture again until smooth and well-combined.
   2. Prepare the Mold: Grease a silicone mold with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Silicone molds are particularly helpful as they make removing the cake easier once it’s baked.
   3. Pour the Mixture into the Mold: Once the mixture is well-blended, pour it into the prepared mold. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure even distribution.

1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Place the mold in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before removing it from the mold.

2. Prepare the Mango Tea:

1. 1. Boil Water: Bring 1 liter of water to a boil.
   2. Prepare the Tea: While the water is boiling, place the freeze-dried mango, black tea leaves, and lemon wedges into a teapot or heatproof pitcher.

1. 1. Pour Boiling Water: Once the water reaches a rolling boil, pour it over the tea and mango mixture.
   2. Brew the Tea: Allow the tea to steep for 4-5 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea. The longer it steeps, the more pronounced the mango flavor will be.
   3. Serve: Pour the tea into cups and enjoy this tropical, antioxidant-rich beverage.

Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless

This Healthy Apple Cocoa Cake with Mango Tea recipe has all the qualities that make it timeless: simplicity, deliciousness, and nutritional value. Both the cake and the tea are made with natural, wholesome ingredients that provide a burst of flavor without the need for added sugar or artificial additives.

The apple cocoa cake has the perfect balance of natural sweetness from the apples and a rich, deep flavor from the cocoa powder. Unlike traditional cakes that rely on refined sugars, this recipe relies on the apples’ natural sweetness, allowing for a healthier dessert option. The cocoa powder not only adds flavor but also provides antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body, making this dessert a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

The mango tea is an equally timeless drink. Black tea has been enjoyed for centuries for its bold flavor and health benefits, such as improved digestion and heart health. By adding freeze-dried mango and fresh lemon wedges, the tea is given a tropical twist that’s refreshing and energizing. Mango is rich in vitamins A and C, which support skin health and the immune system, while lemon adds a burst of vitamin C that helps with detoxification.

This recipe pairs two classics: a cake and tea, but with a twist that makes them more nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s perfect for those who are looking to lose weight without sacrificing the joy of eating, as well as for anyone who simply enjoys healthy, flavorful food.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approximation)

For the Apple Cocoa Cake:

• • Calories: 150-180 kcal

• • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 5g

• • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 15g (natural sugar from apples)
  • Calcium: 60mg

• Iron: 1mg

For the Mango Tea:

• • Calories: 20-30 kcal

• • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Sugar: 6g (natural sugars from mango and lemon)
  • Vitamin C: 10% of the daily recommended intake

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute the cocoa powder with something else?
A: Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute cocoa powder with carob powder for a caffeine-free option, or you can use dark chocolate (melted) for a richer flavor.

Q: Can I use other fruits in the cake?
A: Absolutely! Pears, bananas, or even berries can be used instead of apples. Just make sure the fruit you choose is naturally sweet to maintain the flavor balance.

Q: Can I make the tea without freeze-dried mango?
A: Yes, you can use fresh mango instead of freeze-dried mango. However, freeze-dried mango offers a more concentrated flavor and is convenient for storage.

Q: How can I adjust the sweetness of the cake?
A: Since this recipe uses the natural sweetness of apples, you can increase or decrease the amount of fruit used depending on your taste preferences. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using a flax or chia egg substitute (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and ensuring the cocoa powder and tea are plant-based.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• • Use a quality cocoa powder: The flavor of your cake will depend on the quality of the cocoa powder. Look for unsweetened cocoa powder with a rich, intense flavor.

• • Add a dash of vanilla extract: If you like the flavor of vanilla, adding a teaspoon to the cake mixture can enhance the overall flavor.
  • Don’t overbake the cake: Check the cake regularly by inserting a toothpick into the center to ensure it’s not overbaked.
  • Customize the tea: You can adjust the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the tea for extra warmth.

Storage Tips

• Apple Cocoa Cake: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
• Mango Tea: Mango tea is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours. Reheat before serving or enjoy it cold over ice.

Conclusion

This Healthy Apple Cocoa Cake with Mango Tea recipe is a perfect combination of health, flavor, and comfort. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a balanced nutritional profile, it’s ideal for those looking for a sweet treat that doesn’t compromise on health. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your desire for a nutritious, guilt-free indulgence. The mango tea provides a refreshing complement to the rich, chocolatey flavor of the cake, making this duo a timeless favorite for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful treat and feel good knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome, natural ingredients!