Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re combining the nutritional powerhouse of chia seeds with the wholesome goodness of millet in a delicious Millet and Chia Seed Cake. This cake is perfect for those looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into their baking. Let’s dive into this nutritious and flavorful recipe!

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 cup millet flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Chia Seeds:
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
• Optional Add-ins:
  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Chia Seeds: In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds with 1/2 cup of water. Let them sit for about 10 minutes until they form a gel-like consistency.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the millet flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, plain yogurt, and milk until smooth and well blended.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the soaked chia seeds and any optional add-ins (such as citrus zest or chopped nuts) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan(s) and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve your Millet and Chia Seed Cake. Enjoy it plain or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Tips and Variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free butter and yogurt alternatives.
• Healthier Option: Replace some of the butter with mashed bananas or applesauce for a lighter texture.
• Nutritional Boost: Add 1/4 cup of ground flaxseed for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

This Millet and Chia Seed Cake is packed with nutrients from the chia seeds and the wholesome goodness of millet, making it a perfect treat for those who prioritize health without compromising on flavor. Its moist texture and subtle crunch from the chia seeds will surely make it a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and savoring this nutritious and delicious cake!