Chocolate Coffee Bundt Cake
What kind of cake do you bake for a friend who doesn’t like cake? Or dessert for that matter? She’s a girl (aww, woman now!) with peculiar tastes. She’ll buy half a watermelon and a pack of deli meat for dinner, and eat it all with generous scoops of chili garlic sauce. She hates eating fruit in any form except raw. She doesn’t like her veggies. She used to buy a stick of salami everyday after school.
Her one weakness is coffee ice cream, which I took advantage of. Or tried to, rather. I had lofty plans. I was going to make a coffee ice cream cake, with six alternating layers of brownie in between. But then I failed, TWICE, at making the ice cream. So I plowed forward instead with this chocolate coffee bundt cake, courtesy of Big Sur Bakery, via Miss Joy. And I decided to freeze the ice cream anyway—it was a Jeni’s Splendid recipe, and looked absolutely amazing on Megan’s blog. It doesn’t taste quite right, more toffee-flavored than coffee-flavored, but maybe people will believe me if I tell them it’s toffee ice cream?
Anyway, you’ll notice there are no pictures of cake slices. I couldn’t cut it open; I mean, wouldn’t that be wrong? A violation of some basic human right to receive an intact cake on one’s birthday? Chris asked if there was any way to cut a slice and weld the piece back in—what misconceptions there exist about baking—but I’m not aware of this being possible. (Is it possible?)
So, a happy happy birthday to one of my best friends in the world! She turns 26 today, and I’ve officially known her for half my life. Whew! Although by the time you read this, her birthday will have passed. Now off to celebrate. A cake report to follow.
The next day: Good cake, great ice cream, and perfect company! I won’t post the ice cream recipe for the reason mentioned above, but the cake, now the cake, is one I should spread the word about.
CHOCOLATE COFFEE BUNDT CAKE
Recipe from Big Sur Bakery via Joy the Baker
Makes one 10-inch bundt cake
Ingredients:
- 1-1/4 cups plus 1 Tbsp brewed coffee
- 3/4 cup Dutch process cocoa powder (Note: I used regular)
- 2-1/4 cups sugar
- 1-1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 2-1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1-1/4 cups plus 1 Tbsp buttermilk
- 1 cup plus 2 Tbsp canola oil
- 1-1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-1/2 cups, plus 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour, sifted
Directions:
Place an oven rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F.
Well grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan and set aside (Note: I used a 9-inch Bundt pan and there was definitely too much batter. Go with the 10″).
Put brewed coffee and cocoa powder in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, whisking frequently. Remove from the heat and let come to room temperature.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fit with a whisk attachment, mix together sugar, salt, baking soda, eggs and egg yolk on low speed for about 1 minute. Add the buttermilk, oil and vanilla extract and mix on low again for another minute. Add the flour and mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Add the cooled cocoa mixture and mix on medium speed for 3 minutes. The batter will be very loose.
Pour into the prepared cake pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a cake tester inserted in the cake comes out clean (Note: I baked it for 70 minutes). Let the cake cool completely in the pan and then invert onto a cooling rack. Decorate with powdered sugar and serve with ice cream.
Is Celery Acidic? Celery for Acid Reflux: Good or Bad?
Celery, a staple in many diets, is widely recognized for its crunch, low calorie count, and health benefits. But for those suffering from acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), the question arises: “Is celery acidic? Is celery for acid reflux a good choice or a potential trigger?” In this article, we will dive into the pH level of celery, its potential effects on acid reflux, and how to incorporate it into a reflux-friendly diet. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether celery can be your ally in managing acid reflux.
Is Celery Acidic? Understanding Its pH Level
Celery is classified as an alkaline food, with a pH level ranging from 5.7 to 6.0. While not as alkaline as some other vegetables, celery is still considered a low-acid option. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Food Item | pH Range | Acidity Level |
| Celery | 5.7–6.0 | Low Acid/Neutral |
| Spinach | 6.5–7.0 | Alkaline |
| Cucumber | 6.0–7.0 | Alkaline |
| Tomatoes | 4.0–4.6 | Alkaline |
Celery’s alkaline nature makes it a popular choice for individuals looking to balance their diet and reduce acidity. Its ability to help neutralize stomach acid has made it a go-to food for those managing acid reflux.
Related to Read: Is Bok Choy Safe for Acid Reflux?
Nutritional Benefits of Celery: A Powerhouse of Health
Celery isn’t just about its alkalinity; it’s a nutrient-rich vegetable offering numerous health benefits:
- High Water Content: With over 95% water, celery keeps you hydrated and aids in digestion.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Contains flavonoids, beta carotene, and vitamin C, which combat oxidative stress.
- Dietary Fiber: Promotes gut health and regular bowel movements.
- Low in Calories: A perfect snack for those looking to manage their weight.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Contains phytonutrients that may reduce inflammation in the body.
Can Celery Help with Acid Reflux? Exploring Its Impact
Celery is often recommended as a reflux-friendly food due to its alkalinity and digestive benefits. Here’s how celery might help:
1. Neutralizes Stomach Acid
The alkaline nature of celery can help balance stomach acid levels, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
2. Supports Digestion
Celery’s fiber content aids in smooth digestion, preventing issues like bloating and indigestion that can exacerbate acid reflux.
3. Low-Fat Content
High-fat foods can trigger acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Celery, being naturally low in fat, avoids this problem.
4. Hydration
The high water content in celery helps dilute stomach acid, potentially preventing reflux episodes.
Related to Read: Is Cabbage Juice Acidic?
How to Include Celery in a Reflux-Friendly Diet?
To maximize celery’s benefits while minimizing any potential discomfort, consider these tips:
1. Eat It Raw
Raw celery retains its crunch, nutrients, and alkalinity. Pair it with a reflux-safe dip like hummus.
2. Add to Smoothies
Blend celery with alkaline fruits like bananas and spinach for a refreshing, reflux-friendly smoothie.
3. Incorporate into Soups
Cooking celery in low-acid soups can make it easier to digest without compromising its benefits.
4. Avoid High-Acid Pairings
Skip pairing celery with acidic ingredients like tomatoes or citrus-based dressings.
5. Drink Celery Juice
While slightly less fiber-rich, celery juice is another way to enjoy its alkalinity. Start with small servings to gauge your tolerance.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Potential Risks of Celery for Acid Reflux
Though celery is generally well-tolerated, it’s not entirely risk-free:
- Bloating: Excessive consumption may cause bloating in sensitive individuals.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, celery can trigger allergic responses in some people.
- Pesticide Residue: Opt for organic celery or wash thoroughly to avoid exposure to pesticides.
Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
Celery vs. Other Vegetables for Acid Reflux
How does celery compare to other vegetables in managing acid reflux?
| Vegetable | Acidity Level | Reflux-Friendly |
| Celery | Low Acid | Yes |
| Spinach | Alkaline | Yes |
| Broccoli | Alkaline | Yes |
| Onions | Acidic | No |
Celery stands out as a versatile, reflux-friendly vegetable, suitable for most diets.
Related to Read: Are Broccoli Acidic?
FAQs About Celery and Acid Reflux
1. Is celery good for acid reflux?
Yes, celery is alkaline and can help neutralize stomach acid, making it a good choice for acid reflux sufferers.
2. Can celery juice worsen acid reflux?
Unlikely, but individual tolerances vary. Start with small amounts to ensure it doesn’t trigger symptoms.
3. How much celery should I eat daily for acid reflux?
Aim for 1–2 stalks or half a cup of chopped celery daily as part of a balanced diet.
4. Are cooked celery and raw celery equally beneficial?
Both forms are beneficial, but cooking celery can make it easier to digest for some people.
5. Can celery replace medication for acid reflux?
While celery may alleviate symptoms, it’s not a substitute for prescribed medication. Always consult a healthcare provider for severe or persistent reflux.
Conclusion: Is Celery a Good Choice for Acid Reflux?
Celery’s low acidity, high water content, and digestive benefits make it an excellent option for managing acid reflux. Its versatility allows for easy incorporation into various meals, whether raw, cooked, or juiced. While individual results may vary, most people with acid reflux can enjoy celery without concern. By adding celery to your diet mindfully, you can take a step toward better digestive health and overall well-being.