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Dark chocolate gingerbread loaf

Gingerbread and winter go hand in hand. The warm scent of gingerbread wafting through the house is cozy and inviting. Seasonal spices, like cinnamon and clove, mix with unsweetened applesauce to create this irresistible, smile-friendly treat for anyone to enjoy! So, whether you’re off to a holiday gathering, taking a treat to a neighbor, or just looking to make something sweet at home, this delicious dessert is the perfect option.

Healthy highlights:

  • Applesauce is rich in calcium that helps build strong teeth.
  • Cinnamon may prevent tooth decay and bad breath by destroying oral bacteria.
  • Dark chocolate contains polyphenols, which may protect against oral diseases.

Ingredients:

For the loaf:

  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup coconut sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon cloves
  • ½ teaspoon allspice
  • 4 tablespoons dark chocolate chips, divided

For the chocolate-and-nuts glaze:

  • 4 ounce dark chocolate chips
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • Mixed nuts, for topping

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare a 9x5-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Combine eggs, coconut sugar, applesauce, pumpkin, molasses, and olive oil and blend until smooth.
  3. Sift together dry ingredients in a large bowl and then fold into the batter. Add 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate chips.
  4. Transfer batter to prepared baking pan and smooth into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips on top, pressing them slightly into the batter.
  5. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Remove loaf from pan and let sit an additional 60 minutes.
  7. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips, cinnamon, and coconut milk together. Drizzle over cooled cake and gently press mixed nuts into the chocolate drizzle.
  8. Enjoy!
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