Are you a dessert lover trying to make healthier choices? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious lower fat cake recipes that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing taste or nutrition. From classic vanilla sponge cakes to decadent chocolate and fruity treats, we’ve got a recipe to suit every palate.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey of discovery as we explore the world of lower fat baking. With ingredients like Greek yogurt, applesauce, banana, and avocado, these recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a special treat or a healthier alternative to traditional cakes, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll share our top 20 lower fat cake recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and support your health goals. So go ahead, indulge in these sweet treats without the guilt!
Greek Yogurt Vanilla Sponge Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion. The addition of Greek yogurt adds a tangy twist to the classic vanilla sponge recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 6 ounces Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Applesauce Chocolate Chip Cake
This cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the added bonus of being incredibly moist. The addition of applesauce gives it a tender crumb, while the chocolate chips provide a delightful surprise in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup applesauce
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Cake with Cinnamon
This warm and comforting cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a breakfast option. The combination of ripe bananas, hearty oatmeal, and inviting cinnamon creates a delightful flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Low-Fat Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this moist and aromatic pumpkin spice cake, paired with a tangy and creamy low-fat cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; beat until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans; bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Carrot Cake with Coconut Flour
This recipe is a game-changer for those looking for a gluten-free alternative to traditional carrot cake. By using coconut flour, you’ll get a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pound Cake
Moist and flavorful, this lemon ricotta pound cake is perfect for springtime celebrations or as a sweet treat any time of the year. The combination of tangy lemon zest and creamy ricotta cheese adds a delightful brightness to this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk ricotta cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Chocolate Avocado Cake
Experience the decadence of a classic chocolate cake with the added creaminess of avocados! This recipe combines the two to create a moist and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chocolate chips or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed avocados, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Angel Food Cake with Fresh Berries
This classic dessert gets a sweet and tangy boost from the addition of fresh berries. Perfect for warm weather, this light and airy cake is a refreshing treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), hulled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour into a medium bowl.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff and glossy.
4. Fold in sifted flour and salt until no streaks remain.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan or tube pan.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
7. Allow cake to cool upside down on a wire rack.
8. Top with fresh berries and serve.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zucchini Walnut Cake
This refreshing zucchini walnut cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, packed with the nutritious goodness of zucchinis and crunchy walnuts. A great option for a healthier dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, grated zucchini, eggs, vanilla extract, and chopped walnuts. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake with Light Whipped Topping
This classic dessert is a perfect combination of fresh strawberries, sweet biscuits, and light whipped topping. Enjoy a delightful treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
3. Split the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
4. Spoon some whipped topping over each biscuit half, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
5. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a dollop of whipped topping on top.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is quick to prepare and ready in just a few minutes.
Chai-Spiced Honey Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is infused with the comforting flavors of chai spices and golden honey, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp black tea leaves (such as Assam or Ceylon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in chai spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger) and tea leaves.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Blueberry Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of blueberries with the nutty taste of almonds, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and butter until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in blueberries and almonds.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with Greek Yogurt
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful pineapple upside-down cake, infused with the tanginess of Greek yogurt. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (240ml) Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) pineapple rings
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, Greek yogurt, egg, salt, and pineapple rings; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan; top with chopped mint leaves.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven; let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a plate.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with sweet undertones, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence. The addition of white chocolate chips adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, matcha powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in white chocolate chips.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Cake
Moist and flavorful, this peanut butter banana cake is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration or just a random Tuesday.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, and bananas. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Red Velvet Cake with Low-Fat Cream Cheese Frosting
This recipe combines the iconic flavors of red velvet cake and cream cheese frosting, but with a healthier twist. The result is a moist and flavorful cake paired with a tangy and creamy frosting that’s surprisingly low in fat.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together wet ingredients.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; beat until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
6. Beat cream cheese, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes per cake (60-75 total)
Orange Polenta Cake
This Orange Polenta Cake combines the warmth of polenta with the brightness of orange zest and juice, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together polenta, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the orange juice and zest; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Pear and Walnut Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of spices and the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and butter until smooth.
3. Add diced pears, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom; mix until combined.
4. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Flour Lemon Drizzle Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake made with coconut flour, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon. Perfect for a springtime gathering or a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups coconut flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut flour, sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix well.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before drizzling with confectioners’ sugar mixture (1:1 ratio of confectioners’ sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice).
7. Garnish with lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Dark Chocolate Beetroot Cake
This decadent cake combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate with the natural sweetness of beetroot, resulting in a moist and indulgent treat. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 150g granulated sugar
– 100g unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (120g) cooked and peeled beetroot
– 60g dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease two 20cm (8in) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs and cooked beetroot.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips and stir into the batter.
5. Add baking powder, salt, and milk. Mix until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in delicious cakes without compromising on your health goals! This article features 20 mouthwatering lower-fat cake recipes that are perfect for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while watching their calorie intake. From classic vanilla sponge cake made with Greek yogurt to innovative creations like chocolate avocado cake and carrot cake with coconut flour, these desserts will delight your taste buds without breaking the calorie bank. Get baking and indulge in guilt-free indulgence!
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