Craving a decadent chocolate dessert but worried about your blood sugar levels? Then look no further! This Low Carb Chocolate Keto Torte is the perfect diabetic-friendly dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your blood glucose.
As someone caring for a child living with type 1 diabetes, I am always looking for tasty ways to balance a love for desserts and the need to manage blood sugar levels. And this Low Carb Chocolate Torte has become a staple in my dessert repertoire, at only 5g of countable carbs per slice!
This simple, diabetic-friendly, and gluten-free dessert requires just six simple ingredients and can be baked in under 10 minutes, filling your home with delightful, rich chocolate aromas. Perfect for a special occasion, this decadent low-sugar treat is sure to impress. Continue reading to discover more about this sumptuous low-carb cake and how effortlessly you can create this beautiful dessert.
What is a Torte?
A torte is a type of rich and usually dense cake that often includes ground nuts or breadcrumbs in addition to flour. Tortes are known for their decadent and indulgent qualities, and they may feature various layers, fillings, and toppings.
Unlike traditional cakes, tortes often have a higher ratio of nuts or breadcrumbs to flour, or quite often they tend to be a totally flourless cake, resulting in a more substantial and moist texture. They are frequently associated with European and particularly Austrian cuisine, where the term “torte” is commonly used to describe a variety of elaborate and layered cakes, often served on special occasions.
Toppings for tortes can range from whipped cream and fruit to chocolate ganache, depending on the specific recipe and regional variations.
Understanding A Low Carb Diet (or Keto Diet)
One of the standout features of this chocolate keto torte is its minimal carbohydrate content. Traditional desserts are often loaded with sugars and refined carbohydrates, which can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. This torte, on the other hand, uses low-carb alternatives (which you would typically find in Keto Recipes) like almond flour and a sugar substitute which ensure a mouth-watering experience but without the blood spikes.
The principles of a ketogenic (keto) diet can sometimes be a beneficial tool in your diabetes management toolkit. A keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating plan designed to induce a state of ketosis in the body. In ketosis, the body shifts from using glucose as its primary energy source to burning fats for fuel. This metabolic state is achieved by significantly reducing carbohydrate intake and replacing it with increased consumption of fats and moderate protein.
Whilst we do not follow a keto lifestyle, I believe that carbohydrates play an important role in your overall health goals and diabetes management. Nevertheless, I do find that some aspects of the keto diet, particularly for sweet treats have been very beneficial.
How this low-carb dessert can benefit individuals with diabetes?
Low-carb (or Keto) desserts help to regulate blood sugar levels by minimizing the intake of sugars and refined carbohydrates. And if you are insulin-dependent then this also means that the smaller the amount of insulin needed then the smaller the room for error. We have found that making changes like opting for low carb and keto desserts helps with our daughter’s overall blood glucose management. Particularly when you are enjoying a dessert after a big dinner or lunch.
If you would like to learn more about Carbohydrates and Diabetes Management, then make sure to read my article below:
A Gluten-Free Option
For those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities, which can often go hand in hand with a diabetes diagnosis, this flourless chocolate torte is also the perfect dessert. Almond flour serves as the perfect substitute for wheat flour in this cake, making this dessert an inclusive option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. It also adds a wonderful nutty element to this dessert along with extra nutritional benefits.
Sugar Substitutes – The Secret to Blood Sugar-Friendly Desserts
The other element to making this Keto Torte suitable for individuals with diabetes lies in the use of sugar substitutes. My personal preference is to use xylitol, a low GI natural low-carb sweetener that does not change the taste in your baking.
However, Stevia, erythritol, and monk fruit are also other natural sweeteners that add the perfect touch of sweetness without causing spikes in blood sugar levels as well. As a diabetic-friendly alternative, these sugar substitutes offer an easy way to enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness of this torte. But if you would like to read more about diabetes and sugar substitutes then make sure to check out my article below:
Sugar Substitutes and Diabetes Management
The world of sugar substitutes and type 1 diabetes can be confusing. This guide explores substitutes in the UK and diabetes management
This Chocolate Keto Torte is specifically designed for individuals managing diabetes. With carefully chosen ingredients and sugar substitutes, it allows you to satisfy your sweet tooth without causing significant spikes in blood sugar levels. So what are you waiting for, read on to find out how and what you need to make this delicious dessert!
Ingredients Needed for this Keto Chocolate Torte
Dark Chocolate
- Try and use chocolate that has a cocoa content 70% or above as this intensifies the flavour
- Plus the higher the cocoa content the lower the sugar!
- You could also use unsweetened baking chocolate or sugar free chocolate if you prefer
Unsalted Butter
- Adds moistness and richness to the torte
Eggs
- A key component to this torte and should be free-range
Sugar Replacement
- I used Xylitol, a 1:1 sugar replacement. But you could use any sweetener of your choice. Just make sure to adjust quantities as the sweetness levels vary between them as I explain here
- You can find a list of my recommended products that I use on my shop page!
Almond Flour
- Gluten-free and adds an extra nutty flavour
- Used instead of wheat flour – it is a great no carb-count option.
- Read more about baking with almond flour in this article!
- You can find a list of my recommended products that I use on my shop page!
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder or cacao powder
- Intensifies the chocolatey-ness of the cake and adds a slight bitterness
- But make sure it doesn’t have any added sugar
Equipment Needed
Parchment Paper
Saucepan
How to make Chocolate Keto Torte
Creating a delectable chocolate torte is a breeze with just 10 minutes of effortless preparation, followed by a short baking time of 25-30 minutes, making it a quick and delightful treat for any occasion.
Simply follow the step by step instructions below:
Step 1
Start by preheating the oven to 180C/160C Fan/Gas 4. Then prepare your cake tin by greasing and lining the base. I used a 8″ / 20cm springform cake tin.
Step 2
Melt the butter and chocolate carefully in a pan or microwave in short intervals. Stir regularly and ensure that it doesn’t overheat
Step 3
In a large bowl sift the almond flour and cocoa powder, as this contributes to a smoother texture in the finished torte. Add the xylitol and mix well until everything is combined.
Step 4
Using a hand mixer or stand mix whisk the eggs until they are light and fluffy.
This helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter torte
Step 5
Now bring it all together – Add the melted chocolate and butter to the dry ingredients and mix well with a spatula.
Step 6
Finally fold in the beaten eggs, careful not to knock too much air out of the cake batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense torte.
Step 7
Pour the chocolate mixture into your prepared springform pan and bake in the oven for 25-30 mins.
Step 8
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet. Overbaking can result in a dry torte.
Step 7
Leave the torte to cool in the tin. Then run a flat spatula around the edge before opening the tin to completely finish cooling on a cooling rack.
Tips for making the BEST Low Carb Torte
Here are my top tips to help you make the best moist chocolate cake every time:
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature before starting. This promotes better incorporation and a smoother texture in the final torte.
Precision in Measurements
Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. I always use a kitchen scale for the best accuracy
Proper Chocolate Melting
When melting the chocolate and butter use a gentle heat, always stirring in between. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the chocolate to separate.
Balancing Sweetness
Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences. My taste buds do not like overly sweet desserts! Taste the batter before baking and add more sugar substitutes gradually until it reaches the desired sweetness level.
Cooling and Settling
Allow the chocolate torte to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a serving plate. This helps the torte settle and maintain its structure.
Chilling (Optional)
For a fudgier texture, consider chilling the torte in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This can enhance the richness of the chocolate flavours.
Serving Suggestions
The key to serving something with this keto torte is to balance the richness of the chocolate with complementary flavours and textures.
Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions to create a customised experience that suits your taste preferences and the occasion:
- Whipped Cream: Serve slices of chocolate torte with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. The light and airy texture of the cream complements the richness of the torte.
- Fresh Berries: Fresh fruit, such as raspberries, strawberries, or a mix of berries, add a burst of freshness and a slightly tart contrast to the decadent chocolate flavour.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing with chocolate desserts. The creamy vanilla tones enhance the chocolatey goodness of the torte.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm sugar free caramel sauce over each slice for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sweetener over the top of the torte adds a touch of elegance and a subtle sweetness without overpowering the chocolate flavour.
- Sea Salt Flakes: Enhance the richness of the chocolate by sprinkling a few flakes of sea salt on top. The combination of sweet and salty can elevate the flavour profile.
- Cherry Compote: Serve the chocolate torte with a sugar free homemade cherry compote. The sweet and slightly tart cherries create a delightful contrast and add a burst of fruity goodness.
How to store chocolate torte
To safely store your chocolate torte, first, ensure it has cooled completely.
I store my torte at room temperature wrapped tightly in aluminium foil for 3-4 days. However, if you have a cake container, use it for added protection against air and contaminants.
For any leftover slices, refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can you freeze torte?
Yes you can. Wrap the torte tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminium foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to eat.
If you are planning to freeze the entire torte, consider slicing it before freezing. This allows you to thaw individual slices as needed, preventing the need to thaw the entire cake.
More Easy & Delicious Diabetic Recipes for BALANCED Blood SugARS:
Diabetes Note
For diabetes management purposes there are a few factors that should be considered when enjoying this delicious chocolate torte.
While the low-carb nature of this dessert can be beneficial for managing blood sugar levels, it’s crucial to monitor portion sizes and be aware of the sugar substitutes used. Everyone responds differently to foods and individuals with diabetes may react differently to certain sugar substitutes. Regular blood sugar monitoring is recommended, especially if you’re trying new recipes.
Carb Counting
The overall carb count for this low carb keto torte based on the ingredients we would count for is:
- 160g of Dark Chocolate (Lindt 70%) = 54.4g of carbs
- 30g of Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Food Thoughts) = 4.4g of carbs
Now add all the carbs together – 54.4 + 4.4 = 58.8g of carbs
Finally divide this by the serving size, 12 – 60/12 = 5g of carbs per portion
Please note this carb count amount per portion is based on the standard ingredients listed above and may differ depending on what you use and how much you choose to eat.
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Low Carb Chocolate Keto Torte – Diabetic Friendly
Satisfy your chocolate cravings without the blood sugar spikes with this mouth-watering low carb chocolate keto torte.
12
servings10
minutes30
minutes40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
160 g 160 unsalted butter
160 g 160 dark chocolate
200 g 200 almond flour
30 g 30 unsweetened cocoa powder
4 large 4 eggs
100 g 100 xylitol
Directions
- Start by preheating the oven to 180C/160C Fan/Gas 4. Then prepare your cake tin by greasing and lining the base. I used an 8″ / 20cm springform cake tin.
- Melt the butter and chocolate carefully in a pan or microwave in short intervals. Stir regularly and ensure that it doesn’t overheat
- In a large bowl sift the almond flour and cocoa powder, as this contributes to a smoother texture in the finished torte. Add the xylitol and mix well until everything is combined.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mix whisk the eggs until they are light and fluffy.
This helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter torte - Now bring it all together – Add the melted chocolate and butter to the dry ingredients and mix well with a spatula.
Finally fold in the beaten eggs, careful not to knock too much air out of the cake batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense torte. - Pour the chocolate mixture into your prepared springform pan and bake in the oven for 25-30 mins.
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet. Overbaking can result in a dry torte. - Leave the torte to cool in the tin. Then run a flat spatula around the edge before opening the tin to completely finish cooling on a cooling rack.
Equipment
Tips and Notes
- Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences. My taste buds do not like overlly sweet desserts! Taste the batter before baking and add more sugar substitutes gradually until it reaches the desired sweetness level.
- Allow the chocolate torte to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a serving plate. This helps the torte settle and maintain its structure.
- Diabetes Note – While the low-carb nature of this dessert can be beneficial for managing blood sugar levels, it’s crucial to monitor portion sizes and be aware of the sugar substitutes used. Everyone responds differently to foods and you may react differently. Regular blood sugar monitoring is recommended, especially if you’re trying new recipes.
- Carb Counting – 5g of carbs per slice – See above for more info
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