Three-Layer Chocolate Dream Cake (With a Creamy Green Surprise!)
My 61st Birthday Treat Turned St. Patty’s Day Celebration Cake!
This past St. Patrick’s Day was extra special—because it was also my 61st birthday! I wanted to make something festive, delicious, and nourishing, so I created a gorgeous three-layer chocolate cake with a creamy green center that had everyone raving. The only problem? We ate it too fast for photos!
So... I made it again just for YOU—so I could share the full recipe and let you in on this feel-good celebration cake that’s equal parts indulgent, plant-based, flexitarian-friendly, and fun. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because!
Why You'll Love This Cake
- It’s naturally sweetened with Medjool dates and maple syrup
- Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like almond flour, cacao, and spinach
- The creamy green layer is baked right into the cake and adds a surprise pop of color (without any food coloring!)
- Gluten-friendly, dairy-free, and loaded with flavor and texture
Recipe: Three-Layer Chocolate & Creamy Green Cake
Pan Used: 8-inch springform, lined on the bottom and sides with parchment
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter (for top & bottom layers)
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups almond flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup raw cacao powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 10–12, soaked in warm water)
- ¾ cup date soaking water, mixed with almond-coconut milk
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Blend soaked dates with the date water and almond-coconut milk until creamy and smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, cacao powder, baking soda, and sea salt.
- Stir in the blended date mixture, coconut oil, ACV, and vanilla.
- Mix until just combined. Divide batter in half for two chocolate layers.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Green Center Layer
This layer bakes beautifully and holds its creamy, cheesecake-like texture!
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup raw cashew butter cream (or soaked cashews)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup baby spinach (for natural green color)
- 1–2 tbsp almond-coconut milk (as needed to blend)
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until super smooth, thick, and creamy—like a pourable frosting.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Pour half the chocolate batter into the springform pan and spread evenly.
- Gently spoon the green filling on top, spreading it just shy of the edge.
- Pour the remaining chocolate batter on top and smooth it out.
- Tap the pan lightly to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes. Toothpick should come out clean from the top layer.
- Cool in the pan for 20–30 minutes. Remove the ring and chill before slicing to reveal the beautiful layers.
Step 4: Chocolate Icing for the Outside
Ingredients:
- ½ cup melted dark chocolate (plant-based)
- ¼ cup thick coconut cream
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp raw cacao powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
Whisk everything until silky and glossy. Let cool slightly, then spread over the cake.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a sprinkle of cacao nibs
- Slice when fully chilled for clean layers
- Garnish with mint leaves or edible flowers for a show-stopping finish
Healthy Benefits of the Key Ingredients:
- Medjool Dates – high in potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness without a crash
- Almond Flour – rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats for heart health
- Raw Cacao Powder – loaded with antioxidants and mood-boosting compounds
- Cashew Butter/Spinach Cream – gives you healthy fats, plant-based protein, and subtle greens without the taste
- Coconut Oil & Coconut Cream – adds richness with antimicrobial benefits
- Apple Cider Vinegar – aids digestion and helps activate baking soda for the perfect rise
Approximate Nutrition Info (Per Slice, based on 10 servings):
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: ~15g
- Carbs: ~32g
- Protein: ~5g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Refined Sugar: 0g
Final Thoughts:
This cake is proof that you can celebrate life after 60 with flavor, fun, and health all in one bite. Whether you're plant-curious or fully flexitarian, this cake checks all the boxes.
Let me know if you try it! And next time... I might snap a photo before diving in. Maybe.
Disclaimer: This recipe is for informational purposes only and is based on my personal experience and preferences. It is not intended as medical or nutritional advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
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