If you are in the mood for a delicious treat that balances sweetness and lightness, then our Light Applesauce Carrot Cake recipe is perfect for you. Combining the natural sweetness of applesauce with the wholesome goodness of carrots, this cake is a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. Whether you are looking for a cozy dessert for a family gathering or a special treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and start baking this delightful creation!
Light Applesauce Carrot Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, honey or maple syrup, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once the cake has cooled, you can frost it with cream cheese frosting if desired. Alternatively, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a lighter touch.
10. Slice and serve the Light Applesauce Carrot Cake, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
This Light Applesauce Carrot Cake recipe is a wonderful option for those seeking a healthier dessert alternative without sacrificing taste. The natural sweetness of the applesauce perfectly complements the rich flavor of carrots, creating a moist and flavorful cake that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you choose to top it with cream cheese frosting or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is a versatile and delightful treat for any occasion. Gather your ingredients and start baking this delicious cake today!
