Are you a health-conscious baker looking for sweet treats that won’t ruin your diet? Look no further! We’ve got 20 scrumptious lower-fat cake recipes to satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste. From classic flavors like lemon and vanilla, to more adventurous options like chocolate avocado and pumpkin protein, these cakes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From the moment you take a bite, you’ll know that these cakes are special. Moist and fluffy textures, rich flavors, and clever substitutions make them perfect for those looking to indulge without feeling guilty. Whether you’re a busy parent, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who loves baking, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 lower-fat cake recipes that are sure to impress. From classic pound cakes to innovative flavor combinations, these recipes are tried and true, and guaranteed to become new favorites.
Greek Yogurt Lemon Pound Cake
Brighten up your dessert table with this moist and tangy Greek yogurt lemon pound cake, infused with the warmth of vanilla and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (240ml) Greek yogurt
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
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
Applesauce Spice Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with the warmth of spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a delicious addition to your breakfast table.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup applesauce
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by applesauce and spices.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Cake
This classic cake recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 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 (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chocolate Avocado Cake
Moist and decadent, this chocolate avocado cake is a game-changer for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while still indulging in healthier ingredients. The avocados add natural creaminess and healthy fats, making it perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, sugar, and eggs. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and avocado mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Protein Cake
A delicious and nutritious treat that combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the benefits of protein-rich ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (30g)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, almond flour, applesauce, pumpkin puree, protein powder, eggs, baking powder, salt, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped nuts (if using).
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Carrot Cake with Coconut Flour
This moist and flavorful carrot cake uses coconut flour as a substitute for traditional wheat flour, making it an excellent option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. With the addition of sweet carrots, crunchy walnuts, and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups coconut flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut flour, sugar, eggs, melted butter, carrots, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Angel Food Cake with Fresh Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this classic recipe that combines the tender, airy texture of angel food cake with the sweetness and freshness of mixed berries. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick treat anytime!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or mixed)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour and sugar into a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually pour cold water, vinegar, and sifted flour mixture into the egg whites. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan (10 inches/25cm).
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Slice and serve with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zucchini Chocolate Cake
Add a twist to traditional chocolate cake by incorporating the natural sweetness and moisture of zucchini. This unique combination yields a rich, fudgy, and utterly delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 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, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, grated zucchini, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Allow to cool slightly before folding into cake batter.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Flour Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Coconut Flour Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of coconut, pineapple, and brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and pineapple juice. Mix until smooth.
3. Add coconut flour, salt, and baking soda. Mix until well combined.
4. Arrange chopped pineapple in the prepared cake pan.
5. Pour batter over pineapple, spreading evenly to cover.
6. Sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut on top of the batter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a plate.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chickpea Flour Chocolate Cake
A rich and moist chocolate cake made with chickpea flour, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping it gluten-free. This unique dessert is a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions or simply looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups chickpea flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Chia Seed Cake
Moist and flavorful, this cake is a perfect blend of sweet strawberries and nutty chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and chia seeds.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Fold in sliced strawberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato Spice Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is perfect for the fall season, made with roasted sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a hint of maple syrup. It’s a delicious treat to enjoy on its own or topped with your favorite frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, roasted and mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, and maple syrup. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Flour Orange Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the warmth of orange zest and the subtle nutty taste of almond flour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, cooled
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Zest of 1 orange (about 2 tbsp)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, orange juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Fold in orange zest.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blueberry Quinoa Cake
This sweet treat combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the natural sweetness of blueberries, perfect for a snack or dessert. This cake is also packed with protein and fiber, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa, sugar, and flour.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in blueberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Ricotta Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful vanilla bean ricotta cake, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cake
Experience the refreshing taste of Japan with this moist and delicious Matcha Green Tea Cake. This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of sugar and the comfort of a warm cake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, matcha green tea powder, and milk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Cake
This moist and delicious cake combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of peanut butter, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 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 (180°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 peanut butter, sugar, and mashed bananas. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the softened butter and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Raspberry Oatmeal Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon snack. The combination of sweet raspberries and hearty oatmeal creates a delightful texture and flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in raspberries and milk.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Bean Brownie Cake
A rich and fudgy cake that combines the earthy flavor of black beans with the decadence of a brownie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine black beans, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Chai Spice Apple Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the comfort of apples with the warmth of chai spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a sweet breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or a mix)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– Chai spice blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
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
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and healthy world of lower-fat cakes! This collection of 20 delicious recipes caters to health-conscious bakers who crave something tasty yet nutritious. From classic pound cake to innovative creations like chocolate avocado, pumpkin protein, and carrot cake with coconut flour, these mouthwatering treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. Each recipe is carefully crafted to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor or texture. Get ready to bake up a storm with these ingenious lower-fat cake recipes!
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