Who doesn’t love a slice of moist pound cake, especially when it’s light on fat and perfect for those sunny summer days? In this article, we’ll explore a delicious low-fat pound cake recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
From its fluffy texture to its delightful lemony flavor, this cake is a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time of day.
Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dessert step by step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started on your low-fat pound cake adventure, gather these simple ingredients:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to bake your low-fat pound cake:
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, Greek yogurt, applesauce, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serve slices plain or with a dollop of whipped Greek yogurt and fresh berries.
Why Choose a Low-Fat Pound Cake?
Choosing a low-fat pound cake offers several benefits:
Healthier Option: Lower in calories and saturated fats compared to traditional pound cakes.
Lighter Texture: Greek yogurt and applesauce create a moist and fluffy texture without the need for excess butter.
Refreshing Flavor: The addition of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing citrusy flavor perfect for summer.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your low-fat pound cake turns out perfectly:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest will enhance the flavor of your cake.
Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if the cake is fully baked.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this low-fat pound cake recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack.
With its light texture and tangy lemon flavor, you won’t believe it’s lower in fat than traditional pound cakes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy guilt-free indulgence!
FAQs About Low-Fat Pound Cake
Q1: Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?
A1: Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker texture and higher protein content.
Q2: Can I use lime instead of lemon for this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! Lime zest and juice will give your pound cake a unique twist.
Q3: How should I store leftover pound cake?
A3: Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Q4: Can I freeze this pound cake?
A4: Yes, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Q5: Can I add other flavors to this cake?
A5: Certainly! Experiment with adding extracts like almond or orange for different flavor profiles.