Making a healthy Christmas cake involves substituting traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives and reducing the overall sugar and fat content. Here's a recipe for a healthier version of a classic Christmas fruitcake:
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain, low-fat)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 3 large eggs (preferably free-range)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruits and Nuts:
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots, figs, etc.)
- 1/2 cup chopped dried dates
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: applesauce, melted coconut oil, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Fold in the mixed dried fruits, chopped dates, chopped figs, and chopped nuts into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: You can add a healthy glaze on top using a mixture of Greek yogurt and a little honey or maple syrup.
Remember, even with healthier ingredients, moderation is key. Christmas cake, even when healthier, can still be calorie-dense due to the dried fruits and nuts. Enjoy it as a treat in small portions to maintain a balanced diet during the holiday season.