Beatnik Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Beatnik Cake is a rich, moist chocolate dessert infused with the subtle sweetness of strained baby food beets, creating a vibrant color and unique flavor. Perfect for those seeking a decadent treat with a touch of novelty, it pairs well with coffee or tea for a delightful indulgence.

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Ingredients

  • 2 squares Nestle unsweetened chocolate, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cooking oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 jars strained baby food beets
  • 2 cups sifted flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon soda
  • 3 eggs

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients well.
  2. Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan.
  3. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a richer taste. If you don't have baby food beets, you can blend cooked beets until smooth instead. For a twist, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added texture. This cake is a great option to serve alongside a scoop of Fresh Peach Ice Cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a simple presentation. It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a tangy lemon glaze, which can enhance the cake's earthy flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm, ensuring it doesn't dry out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beatnik Cake contains roughly 493 calories, with 10g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1170mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

493 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.6g 19% DV
Total Fat 3g 4% DV
Carbs 80.8g 29% DV
Fiber 5.1g 18% DV
Sugar 10.8g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1169.8mg 51% DV
Potassium 404.3mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 6.3mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 12.9mg 14% DV
Calcium 59.1mg 5% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose has a good structure to provide the right consistency. Additionally, check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep in mind that ovens vary, so start checking around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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