Apple Walnut Spice Cake Trifle: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with this Apple Walnut Spice Cake. Made with wholesome ingredients like fresh apples, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant spices, this dessert delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice while staying mindful of your Weight Watchers points. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, enjoying it with your morning coffee, or bringing it to a gathering, this cake will surely delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (can use whole wheat for extra fiber)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk (non-fat or almond milk works well)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal, if desired.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
2. Fold in the chopped apples and walnuts, being careful not to overmix.

Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Add the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~160
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW Points: ~4 (varies depending on specific ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for the Season: The combination of apples, walnuts, and warm spices makes this cake a cozy treat for fall or winter.
2. Healthier Twist: By using applesauce and Greek yogurt, the recipe reduces fat while keeping the cake moist and flavorful.
3. Low Points: At just around 4 Weight Watchers points per serving, you can enjoy a slice guilt-free.
4. Versatile Dessert: Serve it plain, with a glaze, or even a dollop of light whipped cream for added indulgence.

Tips for Success

• Apple Choices: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a slightly tangy flavor, or sweeter apples like Fuji for added sweetness.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for an extra layer of warmth.
• Make It Nut-Free: Skip the walnuts if you have nut allergies or prefer a lighter cake. You can replace them with raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Dessert: Serve a slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
2. Holiday Gatherings: This cake makes a wonderful addition to any holiday spread, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas.
3. Add a Scoop: Pair with a scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt for a decadent dessert.

This Apple Walnut Spice Cake is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your goals. Its rich, spiced flavor and moist texture make it feel indulgent, while the healthy substitutions keep it light. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every guilt-free bite!