Chocolate Sauerkraut Cake(Phelps Sauerkraut Festival)
A rich chocolate cake with a surprising tang from sauerkraut, offering moist texture and unique flavor—perfect for those who love bold, unconventional desserts. Suitable for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder and set aside.
- Cream the sugar and butter until light and fluffy; then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and water to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Fold in the drained and chopped sauerkraut.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the cocoa with the flour mixture to ensure there are no lumps. If you're out of butter, you can substitute with equal parts vegetable oil or applesauce for a healthier twist. To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder. This cake is a unique twist on traditional American recipes that incorporate vegetables for moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of chocolate sauerkraut cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs well with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This cake can also be a great addition to a dessert table alongside treats like Welke'S White Cookies or Apple Cake With Caramel Sauce, offering a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chocolate sauerkraut cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, ensuring it retains its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Sauerkraut Cake(Phelps Sauerkraut Festival) contains roughly 153 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chocolate sauerkraut cake a day in advance. Just ensure it is completely cooled before storing it in an airtight container. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cake will remain moist. You can frost it the day you plan to serve it for the best presentation.
What can I substitute for sauerkraut if I want to try a different flavor?
If you're looking to experiment, you can substitute the sauerkraut with finely grated zucchini or even shredded carrots. Both options will keep the cake moist while providing a different flavor profile. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from these vegetables before adding them to the batter.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if the chocolate sauerkraut cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so it’s a good idea to start checking a few minutes before the recommended time.
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).