Low-fat Carrot Cake I
Low-Fat Carrot Cake I Recipe: Delicious and Healthy Cake
Introduction
Carrot cake is a classic dessert that is loved by many for its moist texture and delicious flavor. This low-fat version of carrot cake is a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste. With the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
History
Carrot cake has been around for centuries, with variations of the recipe dating back to medieval times. Originally, carrots were used as a sweetener in cakes when sugar was scarce. Over time, the recipe evolved to include ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and nuts, creating the beloved dessert we know today.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sifted flour
- 1.5 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 0.5 tsp nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1.5 cups grated carrot
- 0.5 cup egg substitute
- 2 tbsp toasted wheat germ
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 0.25 cup canola oil
- 0.38 cup prune purée
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Spray a 9" round pan with non-stick vegetable spray and set it aside.
- Sift together pastry flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine the egg substitute and sugar.
- Add the oil, prune purée, vanilla, and spices, and blend well.
- Add the flour mixture and stir just enough to blend.
- Fold in the carrots, wheat germ, and chopped nuts.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Variations
- Add raisins or pineapple for added sweetness and texture.
- Substitute the egg substitute with mashed bananas for a vegan version of the cake.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to grate the carrots finely to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter.
- Toasting the wheat germ before adding it to the batter will enhance its nutty flavor.
- For a more indulgent version, you can add cream cheese frosting on top of the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the carrot cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Whole wheat flour can be used instead of pastry flour.
- Unsweetened applesauce can be used in place of prune purée.
Make Ahead Tips
The carrot cake can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Dust the carrot cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the carrot cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover carrot cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 210 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 32g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 7g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 3g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This carrot cake is a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, thanks to the carrots.
Alergens
Contains wheat and nuts. Can be made nut-free by omitting the chopped nuts.
Summary
This low-fat carrot cake is a nutritious dessert option that is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional carrot cakes.
Summary
This low-fat carrot cake is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional carrot cakes. With a moist texture and flavorful spices, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice guilt-free!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, I stumbled upon a faded card titled "Low-fat Carrot Cake."
I had always been a fan of carrot cake, but the traditional recipe was full of sugar, butter, and oil. I was on a mission to find a healthier alternative that still satisfied my sweet tooth. And there it was, the answer to my prayers - a low-fat version of my favorite dessert.
The card was written in my mother's elegant cursive handwriting, with notes scribbled in the margins. She had received the recipe from a friend many years ago, who had claimed it was the best carrot cake she had ever tasted. I knew I had to give it a try.
I gathered the ingredients listed on the card - carrots, whole wheat flour, applesauce, and a blend of warm spices. As I mixed the batter, the kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. It was a labor of love, but I knew the end result would be worth it.
After baking the cake and allowing it to cool, I was finally able to take a bite. The first taste was pure bliss - moist, flavorful, and not too sweet. The carrots added a subtle sweetness and a tender texture, while the spices danced on my taste buds. I couldn't believe that something so delicious could be considered low-fat.
I shared the cake with my family, who all agreed that it was a winner. My children, who were usually hesitant to try anything labeled "healthy," devoured their slices and asked for seconds. My husband, who had a notorious sweet tooth, declared it the best carrot cake he had ever tasted.
From that day on, Low-fat Carrot Cake I became a staple in our household. I made it for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who were amazed that a low-fat dessert could taste so decadent. It quickly became a favorite among my circle of loved ones.
As the years passed, I continued to tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different variations. I tried using different types of flour, swapping out the applesauce for mashed bananas, and even adding chopped nuts for extra crunch. Each version was a hit, but the original recipe remained a classic in my heart.
I never did find out where my mother's friend had discovered the recipe, but I like to think that it was handed down through generations of bakers who appreciated a good dessert. I like to imagine a group of women in a cozy kitchen, sharing tips and tricks for creating delicious treats that were as good for the body as they were for the soul.
And so, Low-fat Carrot Cake I became more than just a recipe to me. It was a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with those we care about. It taught me that healthy eating doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor, and that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
So here I am, years later, still baking Low-fat Carrot Cake I for my family and friends. The recipe card is tattered and stained from years of use, but the memories it holds are as fresh as the day I found it. And every time I take a bite of that moist, spicy cake, I am reminded of the joy that baking has brought into my life.
Categories
| Cake Recipes | Carrot Recipes | Egg Substitute Recipes | Healthy Desserts | Nut Recipes | Pureed Prunes Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes | Wheat Germ Recipes |