If you’re looking to try something unique and healthy, a cake made with fresh spinach might just be the perfect recipe for you. Don’t let the idea of spinach in a cake surprise you—this vibrant green cake is not only visually stunning but also deliciously moist and subtly sweet. The spinach adds a beautiful color and a nutritional boost, while the combination of yogurt, lemon juice, and sugar creates a light and fluffy texture that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just want to experiment with new flavors, this spinach cake is sure to impress both in taste and appearance.
Ingredients
- Fresh Spinach: 159g (about 5.6 oz)
- Eggs: 3 large
- Yogurt: 100g (about 1/2 cup)
- Sugar: 300g (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Oil: 250ml (about 1 cup)
- Lemon Juice: 2 teaspoons
- Plain Flour: 400g (about 3 1/4 cups)
- Baking Powder: 3 teaspoons
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach:
- Begin by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Once clean, blanch the spinach by placing it in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then quickly transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain the spinach well and pat it dry with paper towels. Once dry, blend the spinach in a food processor or blender until it becomes a smooth puree. Set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes of continuous whisking.
- Add the yogurt, oil, and lemon juice to the egg mixture. Whisk until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them in gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Incorporate the Spinach:
- Gently fold the spinach puree into the batter, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The batter should turn a vibrant green color, making the cake visually appealing.
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Once the cake has cooled, you can serve it as is or top it with your favorite frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar. The green color of the cake makes it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion.
Cooking Tips
- Spinach Purée: Make sure the spinach is well-drained before blending it into a purée. Excess water can affect the consistency of the cake batter.
- Add Flavor: If you want to enhance the flavor of the cake, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon to the batter.
- Yogurt Substitution: If you don’t have yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or buttermilk. Both will add the same level of moisture and tanginess to the cake.
- Frosting Options: Cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with this spinach cake, complementing its slight tang and adding a rich, creamy layer. Alternatively, a simple lemon glaze can add a zesty finish.
Nutritional Benefits
This spinach cake not only tastes good but also comes with several nutritional benefits:
- Spinach: Spinach is a superfood rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants. It supports bone health, boosts the immune system, and promotes healthy skin.
- Eggs: Eggs provide high-quality protein and are a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, choline, and B vitamins.
- Yogurt: Yogurt adds moisture to the cake while also providing probiotics, which support gut health. It’s also rich in calcium and protein.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and improve skin health. It also adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique and Healthy: This spinach cake is a creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The fresh spinach adds a beautiful color and nutritional benefits without overpowering the flavor of the cake.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of yogurt, oil, and lemon juice ensures that the cake is incredibly moist and has a light, refreshing flavor. The spinach adds a subtle earthiness that pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
- Versatile: Whether served plain or with frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. It can be enjoyed as a dessert, a snack, or even as a unique addition to a brunch spread.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant green color of the cake makes it a standout dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. It’s a fun and unexpected treat that everyone will love.
Dietary Information
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per slice (depending on portion size and additional toppings)
- Protein: 4-5 grams per slice
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams per slice
- Fats: 10-12 grams per slice
- Fiber: 2-3 grams per slice
This cake is vegetarian and can be made gluten-free by substituting the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s also relatively low in fat compared to traditional cakes, thanks to the use of yogurt and oil.
Why This Recipe Works
This spinach cake recipe works because it cleverly incorporates fresh spinach into a sweet treat without compromising on flavor or texture. The spinach adds moisture and a stunning green color, while the yogurt and oil create a tender crumb. The lemon juice brightens the overall flavor, making the cake taste fresh and light. The balance of ingredients ensures that the cake is not only delicious but also healthy, offering a unique way to enjoy a classic dessert with a twist.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to try something new and exciting, this Fresh Spinach Cake is the perfect recipe. It’s a delicious and healthy dessert that’s sure to surprise and delight anyone who tries it. With its vibrant color, moist texture, and subtle sweetness, this cake is a true showstopper. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a slice of something different, this spinach cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and discover just how delicious and versatile spinach can be!