Dessert: Chocolate-Citrus Cake With Candied Oranges Recipe | MyRecipes

Recipe by Rose Marie Crowe, Trussville, Alabama A rich whipped chocolate ganache filling is the happy surprise when you slice into this decadent chocolate layer cake. Frost with a 7-Minute Frosting and decorate with festive candied orange slices, citrus

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Cranberries

Health benefits of Chocolate-Citrus Cake With Candied Oranges Recipe | MyRecipes

Researchers believe that cranberries contain substances that prevent infection-causing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls. However, store-bought cranberry juice is typically all sugar - so make sure to stick with straight cranberries.

Cranberries: The Unsung Hero in PCOS Management

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) stands as one of the predominant hormonal disorders affecting many women across the globe. Finding effective and holistic methods to manage its array of symptoms is often a journey filled with trials and experiments. Amidst the vast spectrum of dietary recommendations, a certain ruby-red fruit emerges as a potential powerhouse: the humble cranberry.

Understanding Cranberries:

Native to North America, cranberries are tiny, tart berries packed with nutrients. They are most commonly known for their ability to support urinary tract health. However, their benefits extend far beyond that, making them a valuable addition to the diet of those managing PCOS.

• 1. Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries boast a high concentration of antioxidants, especially proanthocyanidins. These compounds can combat oxidative stress, which has been linked to insulin resistance, a common concern for those with PCOS.
• 2. Natural Anti-Inflammatory: Inflammation is often silently associated with PCOS. The anti-inflammatory properties of cranberries can potentially aid in reducing systemic inflammation, indirectly supporting hormonal balance.
• 3. Supports Gut Health: A healthy gut can influence hormonal balance. The fibers and phytonutrients in cranberries promote a balanced gut microbiome, fostering good digestive health.
• 4. Low Glycemic Fruit: Dietary recommendations for PCOS often stress the importance of low glycemic index (GI) foods to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Cranberries fit the bill perfectly, allowing for a sweet treat without the blood sugar spike.

Incorporating Cranberries into Your Diet:

While cranberry juice is widely available, it's essential to opt for unsweetened versions to avoid added sugars. Fresh cranberries can be added to salads, smoothies, or baked goods. Dried cranberries, preferably unsweetened or minimally sweetened, can be a delicious addition to oatmeal, granolas, or as a simple snack.

PCOS management requires a multifaceted approach, and nutrition stands as one of its cornerstones. By integrating cranberries into a balanced diet, individuals with PCOS can harness their benefits, taking a flavorful step towards better health. As with all dietary changes, it's always a good practice to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure the best choices for individual health needs.

Ingredients

Parchment paper
2 (4-oz.) bittersweet chocolate baking bars, chopped
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (8-oz.) container sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup hot brewed coffee
Whipped Ganache Filling
Seven-Minute Frosting
Candied Oranges
Garnishes: fresh citrus leaves, cranberries

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 °. Grease and flour 2 (9-inch) round pans. Line bottoms of pans with parchment paper. Lightly grease parchment paper.
Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl at HIGH 1 1/2 minutes or until smooth, stirring at 30-second intervals.
Beat butter and sugars at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until well blended (about 3 minutes). Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. Add melted chocolate, beating just until blended.
Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to chocolate mixture alternately with sour cream, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed just until blended after each addition. (Mixture will be thick.)
Stir vanilla into hot coffee. Gradually add coffee mixture to batter in a slow, steady stream, beating at low speed just until blended. Pour batter into prepared pans.
Bake at 350 ° for 38 to 42 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on a wire rack 10 minutes. Remove from pans to wire rack, and let cool completely (about 1 hour).
Spread Whipped Ganache Filling between layers, spreading to edges of cake and leveling with an offset spatula. Gently press top cake layer down, pressing out a small amount of Ganache Filling from between layers, and spread filling around sides of cake, filling in any gaps between layers. Spread Seven-Minute Frosting over top and sides of cake. Swirl frosting using back of a spoon, if desired. Top with Candied Oranges. Garnish, if desired.