Healthy Apple & Raisin Cake (No Sugar, No Oil, No Dairy

#### **Instructions**:

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a round cake pan (8-9 inches) with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil or coconut oil.

2. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients**: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cinnamon powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients are well mixed.

3. **Prepare the Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, combine the grated apples, soaked raisins (drained), applesauce, and almond milk. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it to this mixture as well. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

4. **Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together. You want to mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, or the cake will be dense.

5. **Add Nuts (Optional)**: If you like a little crunch in your cake, fold in some chopped walnuts or almonds. These add a nice texture and provide healthy fats and protein.

6. **Pour the Batter into the Pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly.

7. **Bake the Cake**: Bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean when inserted into the center. If you notice the cake is browning too quickly on top, you can cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.

8. **Cool and Serve**: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as a healthy snack or dessert.

### Tips for Perfecting Your Apple & Raisin Cake

– **Grate the Apples Well**: Make sure to grate the apples finely to ensure they mix well into the batter and help keep the cake moist. The grated apples also add natural sweetness, so you don’t need to rely on added sugars.

– **Soak the Raisins**: Soaking the raisins in warm water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the batter helps them soften and ensures they don’t dry out while baking.

– **Use Overripe Bananas**: If you don’t have applesauce on hand, **mashed ripe banana** is a great substitute. It adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.

– **Make It Gluten-Free**: You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of whole wheat flour. Be sure to check the other ingredients (like the milk) to make sure they’re also gluten-free.

– **Add Spice for Extra Flavor**: While cinnamon adds a nice flavor, you can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to give the cake a unique twist.

### Why This Apple & Raisin Cake is Perfect for All Occasions

This **Healthy Apple & Raisin Cake** is a versatile dessert that works for many occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a wholesome snack, or a healthier dessert to share with family and friends, this cake fits the bill. It’s:

– **Perfect for Breakfast**: With its fiber-packed ingredients and natural sweetness, this cake makes for a great breakfast or brunch option. Enjoy it with a cup of herbal tea or your morning coffee.

– **A Great Snack**: This cake is also ideal for a midday snack. It’s light, filling, and provides a slow-release of energy, thanks to the fiber from the apples, raisins, and whole wheat flour.

– **Ideal for Special Occasions**: Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cakes at your next gathering? This cake will impress your guests while being gentle on their health-conscious choices.

### Final Thoughts: A Guilt-Free, Nutritious Dessert

The **Healthy Apple & Raisin Cake** is a fantastic dessert that combines the goodness of apples, raisins, and whole wheat flour to create a sweet treat that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Free from sugar, oil, and dairy, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a healthier dessert or snack.

Not only does this cake taste delicious, but it also provides a range of nutrients and health benefits. Whether you’re on a special diet or simply want to enjoy a guilt-free treat, this cake is the perfect solution. So go ahead, treat yourself to a slice (or two) of this wholesome dessert—it’s the healthy indulgence you deserve!