This reduced-fat carrot cake delivers classic comfort without the heaviness. Moist layers of spiced batter, loaded with grated carrots and toasted walnuts, are held together by a subtle prune puree that adds natural sweetness and moisture. The result is a tender crumb with a warm cinnamon aroma, topped with a light, airy cream cheese frosting that balances the sweetness perfectly. Ideal for afternoon tea or potlucks, this cake proves that healthy tweaks don’t mean sacrificing flavor.
Reduced-Fat Carrot Cake
Description
This reduced-fat carrot cake delivers classic comfort without the heaviness. Moist layers of spiced batter, loaded with grated carrots and toasted walnuts, are held together by a subtle prune puree that adds natural sweetness and moisture. The result is a tender crumb with a warm cinnamon aroma, topped with a light, airy cream cheese frosting that balances the sweetness perfectly. Ideal for afternoon tea or potlucks, this cake proves that healthy tweaks don't mean sacrificing flavor.Ingredients
Directions
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Make the prune puree: Combine pitted prunes and hot water in a food processor. Process until completely smooth. Set aside.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Coat three 9-inch layer cake pans with vegetable oil cooking spray. Line the bottoms with wax paper and set aside.
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Spread walnuts in a single layer in a pie plate. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant. Let cool, then chop coarsely.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, cinnamon, baking powder, soda, and salt.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and egg whites.
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Add sugar, prune puree, and vegetable oil to the egg mixture. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
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Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just blended. Do not overmix.
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Fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and toasted walnuts.
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Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let cakes cool in pans on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
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Loosen the edges of the cakes with a knife, then invert them onto the wire racks. Peel off the wax paper and let cool completely.
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Make the frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a scant 1/2 cup of frosting over it.
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Top with the second cake layer and spread another scant 1/2 cup of frosting.
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Place the third layer on top. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 364.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.26g15%
- Saturated Fat 1.43g8%
- Cholesterol 46.6mg16%
- Sodium 1363.6mg57%
- Total Carbohydrate 64.79g22%
- Dietary Fiber 2.06g9%
- Sugars 31.78g
- Protein 6.86g14%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.