Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the spelt or white flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. Make sure everything is well combined to avoid any clumps.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, mix the applesauce (or banana/yogurt), oil (or almond butter), vanilla extract, and water. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Bake the Cake - Pour the batter into the prepared 9x13 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Poke the Cake - Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough for the syrup to seep in!
Step 7: Add the Chocolate Syrup - Slowly pour the chocolate syrup over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This is where the magic happens—every bite will be infused with chocolatey goodness!
Step 8: Let It Cool - Let the cake cool completely in the pan. As it cools, the syrup will settle and create a deliciously moist texture.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy - Once cooled, you can serve the cake as is or top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit. Each forkful should be a blissful experience!