Pumpkin pie

Delicious Pumpkin Cake – Sugar-Free and Flourless

This pumpkin cake recipe is perfect for surprising the little ones and not just them! Sugar-free, flourless, and with a delicate taste, this cake is ideal for moments when you want to indulge without worrying about calories. This quick dessert is not only healthy but also extremely simple to prepare, requiring minimal preparation. Let's see together how it's done!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of baked pumpkin puree (about 500g)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa or carob powder
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of chopped or coarsely chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup of soaked dates
- Honey for serving (optional)

Preparing the pumpkin puree:

The first step is to ensure we have perfect pumpkin puree. The pie pumpkin is baked in the oven until tender. You can cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and bake it at 180 degrees Celsius for about 30-40 minutes until the flesh becomes soft. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh with a spoon and puree it with a blender or masher. It's essential to achieve a fine texture so that the cake turns out perfectly.

Soaking the dates:

To achieve a naturally sweet cake, dates are a key ingredient. Soak them in water with orange blossom extract or, for a more intense flavor, in rum or other flavored liquids. Let them sit for 20 minutes, then blend them until you get a fine puree. This step will not only enhance the flavor but also add a pleasant texture to the cake.

Preparing the batter:

In a large bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them with a fork until homogeneous. Add the pumpkin puree, date puree, chopped nuts, cocoa or carob powder, and cinnamon. Mix the ingredients well with a spatula or large spoon. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness according to your preferences. If you feel it needs a bit more sweetness, don't hesitate to add maple syrup or another natural sweetener.

Baking the cake:

Prepare a non-stick tart pan and pour the batter evenly. Use a spatula to level the surface. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the cake for 20 minutes. It is important that, in the end, you obtain a thin crust on top, and the eggs are fully cooked.

Serving:

Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares and serve it with a drizzle of honey. This will add a touch of sweetness and a floral flavor that will perfectly complement the taste of pumpkin. This cake is delicious both warm and cold, and can be an ideal dessert for a healthy snack or an energizing breakfast.

Nutritional benefits:

Pumpkin cake is an excellent choice for those looking to avoid refined sugar and flour. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it beneficial for eye health and the immune system. Nuts add protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while dates provide quick energy and essential nutrients.

Possible variations:

If you want to experiment, you can add other ingredients to the batter, such as:

- Chia or flax seeds for an extra fiber boost.
- Almond meal for a distinct flavor.
- A splash of vanilla for a touch of refinement.

Ideal pairings:

Pumpkin cake pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like herbal tea or coffee with milk. You can also try serving it alongside Greek yogurt, which will add a creamy texture and a note of acidity.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the eggs in the recipe?
Yes, you can use 1/4 cup of applesauce or a well-mashed banana to replace the two eggs.

2. What can I use instead of dates?
You can use raisins or dried figs, pre-soaked.

3. How can I store the cake?
It keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

4. Is it suitable for vegans?
You can adapt it by using egg substitutes and ensuring the ingredients are vegan.

This pumpkin cake is more than just a dessert; it's a way to bring joy and health to your plate. With every bite, you will feel the inviting flavors of autumn and the warmth of a meal cooked with love. Enjoy every moment and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!