Portuguese Chocolate Cake
This decadent Portuguese Chocolate Cake combines rich mascarpone cheese and premium dark chocolate to create a luxurious dessert. Indulge in its creamy texture while appreciating the nutritional value of high-quality ingredients, making it a perfect balance between health and indulgence. This recipe seamlessly fits a healthy lifestyle, offering a delicious treat without compromising on your dietary goals.
Servings
- Serves 8–10
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich in Nutritional Value: Made with mascarpone cheese, which is a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health.
- Balanced Indulgence: With premium dark chocolate and optional low-glycemic cane sugar, this cake is perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to fit dietary needs, whether you’re focused on health insurance perks for fitness goals or simply savoring a delicious dessert.
Ingredients
- 250 grams mascarpone cheese (rich in calcium for bone health)
- 200 grams dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa for antioxidant benefits)
- 200 grams fine cane sugar (a healthier alternative to refined sugar)
- 1 tablespoon rum (optional)
- 70 grams unsalted butter
- 100 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 box baking powder (approx. 10 grams or 2 teaspoons)
- 5 large eggs (high in protein to support muscle repair and overall nutrition)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- 9-inch round or square baking pan
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch baking pan with unsalted butter and dust with breadcrumbs or flour to prevent sticking. - Prepare Chocolate and Butter Mixture:
Melt the butter and chopped dark chocolate in a microwave or over a bain-marie. Dark chocolate is not only a key ingredient but also a source of antioxidants, which promote heart health. Stir until smooth and set aside. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, cane sugar, and mascarpone cheese until fluffy. Eggs are a great source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle health. - Combine Ingredients:
Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture to the mascarpone mixture, stirring well. If you choose to add rum, incorporate it now. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Sift the flour and baking powder together to ensure even mixing, then gently fold it into the wet ingredients. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for approximately 35 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool for at least 10–15 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for a Health-Conscious Chocolate Cake
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Use organic, dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher for its heart-healthy benefits.
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace cane sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a low-glycemic option.
- Portion Control: Serve smaller slices to make this indulgence a part of your healthy eating routine.
Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Categories
- Dessert
- Healthy Lifestyle Treats
- Nutrition-Friendly Recipes
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour for a nutrient-rich alternative.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute mascarpone cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added probiotics or fresh berries for antioxidants.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Refrigeration ensures the mascarpone cheese retains its freshness and nutritional value.
- Reheat: Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds to enjoy a warm, gooey texture.
FAQs
- How does dark chocolate contribute to a healthy lifestyle?
Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and may reduce inflammation. - Can I make this cake sugar-free?
Yes, replace the cane sugar with a zero-calorie sweetener like erythritol or stevia to align with health-conscious goals. - Is mascarpone cheese a healthy ingredient?
Mascarpone cheese is high in calcium and protein, making it a nutritious addition to this cake.
Portuguese Chocolate Cake
A rich, creamy chocolate cake that balances indulgence with nutrition. Made with dark chocolate, mascarpone cheese, and cane sugar, it’s a treat that supports a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch baking pan and dust with breadcrumbs or flour.
- Melt butter and chocolate over a bain-marie or in the microwave.
- Beat eggs, cane sugar, and mascarpone cheese until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the melted chocolate and butter mixture, adding rum if desired.
- Sift flour and baking powder, then fold into the wet mixture.
- Bake for 35 minutes at 180°C, testing with a toothpick for doneness.
- Cool, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Opt for dark chocolate with 70% cocoa for heart health.
- Adjust sugar levels based on your dietary needs.
