Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

The Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that caters to everyone, even those with dietary restrictions! This rich and fluffy cake is perfect for celebrations or quiet afternoons with coffee. Its unique features include being dairy-free and refined sugar-free while still delivering the decadent flavor of traditional chocolate cakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich Flavor: Indulge in a cake that tastes just like a regular chocolate cake, satisfying your sweet cravings.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Made with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free dessert option.
  • Easy to Make: Quick prep and cook times make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where dessert is needed!
  • Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy a dessert that meets various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect gluten free chocolate cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • 9-inch round cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients effectively without spilling.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your cake rises perfectly and has the right texture.
  • Whisk: A sturdy whisk helps mix ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain.
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Ingredients

The best gluten free chocolate cake recipe made dairy-free and refined sugar-free! This rich and decadent GF chocolate cake tastes just like regular chocolate cake!

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
  • 1 Tbsp cider vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp instant coffee granules (or instant espresso)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (leveled)
  • 3/4 cup raw cacao powder (or unsweetened cocoa powder)
  • 1 1/3 cups coconut sugar
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (optional)
  • 8 ounces dark chocolate (I use two 85% chocolate bars)
  • 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 pinch sea salt (to taste)

How to Make Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with oil or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Pour in the full-fat canned coconut milk.
2. Add cider vinegar to create buttermilk.
3. Mix in instant coffee granules until dissolved.
4. Stir in boiling water carefully.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Gluten-free all-purpose flour.
2. Raw cacao powder.
3. Coconut sugar.
4. Baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt.

Step 4: Mix Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while stirring continuously until well combined.

Step 5: Add Oil and Eggs

Pour in avocado oil and add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in pure vanilla extract.

Step 6: Incorporate Chocolate Chips

If using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter gently before dividing it evenly between the prepared pans.

Step 7: Bake

Place both pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Now you have a delicious gluten free chocolate cake ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

Serving your gluten free chocolate cake is just as important as baking it. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this rich dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Pair with Fresh Berries

  • Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. Simply wash and serve alongside each slice.

Add Whipped Coconut Cream

  • Lightly whip coconut cream for a dairy-free topping. A dollop on each slice makes for a creamy addition that complements the cake beautifully.

Serve with Nut Butter

  • A spread of almond or cashew butter can enhance the flavor profile. This adds a nutty richness that pairs perfectly with chocolate.

Drizzle with Fruit Sauce

  • A homemade sauce made from pureed fruit like strawberries or mango can add a fruity twist. Just blend the fruit and drizzle over the cake for an extra layer of flavor.

Ice Cream Alternative

  • For a cool treat, serve slices with non-dairy ice cream. The coldness pairs well with the warm, rich cake.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

Perfecting your gluten free chocolate cake is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

  • Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and coconut milk to room temperature helps them mix better, creating a smoother batter.

  • Measure flour correctly: Spoon gluten-free flour into your measuring cup and level off for accuracy. This prevents a dense cake.

  • Avoid overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture in the final cake.

  • Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked.

  • Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding any toppings or frosting, ensuring it won’t melt or slide off.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

Pair your gluten free chocolate cake with these delicious side dishes to create an enjoyable dessert experience.

  1. Vanilla Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
  2. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and sweet, these treats are perfect for those who love coconut flavors alongside chocolate.
  3. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cake while adding vibrant colors.
  4. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Simple yet elegant, dipping strawberries in dairy-free dark chocolate enhances the indulgence.
  5. Nutty Granola Bars: These bars offer crunch and energy, making them an excellent pairing for a dessert setting.
  6. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding provides a healthy option that complements the chocolate flavor beautifully while being dairy-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to gluten-free recipes. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

  • Ignoring ingredient measurements: Precision is key in baking. Always measure your ingredients accurately to avoid a dense or dry cake.
  • Skipping the sifting: Not sifting gluten-free flour can lead to lumps. Sift your flour and cocoa powder together for a smoother batter.
  • Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and coconut milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
  • Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
  • Not letting the cake cool properly: Cutting into a warm cake can lead to crumbling. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
  • It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 20–30 seconds or until warm.
  • Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe:

Can I substitute coconut sugar?

Yes, you can use any granulated sugar of your choice, but note that this may change the flavor slightly.

How do I make this cake dairy-free?

The recipe already uses coconut milk and oil instead of dairy products, making it naturally dairy-free!

Can I use another type of gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! You can experiment with almond flour or oat flour, but be aware that texture may vary.

Is this Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe suitable for vegans?

No, this recipe contains eggs. However, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as an alternative.

How do I store and keep my chocolate cake fresh?

Keep your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding nuts, fruits, or even different types of chocolate chips. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress both gluten-free and regular eaters alike. Try it today!

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Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

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Indulge in a slice of this rich and fluffy Gluten Free Chocolate Cake, a delightful dessert that caters to those with dietary restrictions while satisfying everyone’s sweet cravings. This cake is a celebration of flavor, made without dairy or refined sugar, yet it replicates the decadence of traditional chocolate cakes. With its simple preparation method, this versatile treat is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon with coffee. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!

  • Author: Erica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
  • 1 Tbsp cider vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp instant coffee granules
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup avocado oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup raw cacao powder
  • 1 1/3 cups coconut sugar
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk and cider vinegar to create buttermilk. Add instant coffee granules and boiling water; mix well.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cacao powder, coconut sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring until combined.
  5. Mix in avocado oil and eggs one at a time; stir in vanilla extract.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips if desired before dividing the batter between the prepared pans.
  7. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool cakes in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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