Why make this recipe
Chocolate Quinoa Cake is a delicious and nutritious treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. Using quinoa as a base adds a healthy twist to a classic dessert. This cake is gluten-free and packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier cake option. Plus, it’s easy to make and will impress your family and friends!

How to make Chocolate Quinoa Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
- Let the quinoa cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the blended quinoa, cocoa powder, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, eggs, vanilla, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
How to serve Chocolate Quinoa Cake
Serve the Chocolate Quinoa Cake as a delightful dessert after dinner or as a special treat during the day. You can enjoy it on its own or top it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs wonderfully with this cake.
How to store Chocolate Quinoa Cake
To store any leftovers, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To enjoy it later, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months.
Tips to make Chocolate Quinoa Cake
- Make sure to rinse the quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitter taste.
- Allow the quinoa to cool before blending to avoid steaming and creating a dense batter.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, you can add extra cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the batter.
- If you like a sweeter cake, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to your taste.
variation
You can add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture. Another variation is to include some espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor. If you want to make it vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based sweetener.
FAQs
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can use other gluten-free grains like millet or amaranth, but it may alter the texture and flavor.
Is the chocolate quinoa cake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this cake is gluten-free as it uses quinoa instead of regular flour.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the cake should come out clean, indicating that it is fully cooked. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.

Chocolate Quinoa Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and nutritious gluten-free cake using quinoa, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- Let the quinoa cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the blended quinoa, cocoa powder, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, eggs, vanilla, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Notes
For a richer chocolate flavor, you can add extra cocoa powder or chocolate chips. Adjust maple syrup for sweetness as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American