The Best Orange & Almond Coffee Cake You’ll Ever Bake

Craving a tender, fragrant coffee cake that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea—without the Weight Watchers guilt? This Orange & Almond Coffee Cake is a citrusy, nutty delight, featuring moist almond-infused crumb, a bright orange glaze, and a sprinkle of crunchy almonds. It’s a guilt-free way to savor a classic baked good while staying on track!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Citrus Flavor: Fresh orange zest and juice add a sunny, tangy twist.
• Low SmartPoints: Smart swaps like sugar substitutes and light butter keep points in check.
• Easy to Make: No fancy techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunches, holidays, or gifting to friends.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Stays fresh for days or freezes beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute ½ cup almond flour + ½ cup all-purpose for lower carbs)
• ½ cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve or monk fruit)
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup light butter (softened, or unsweetened applesauce for 0 points)
• 2 egg whites
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp almond extract

For the Topping/Glaze:

• 2 tbsp sliced almonds
• ¼ cup powdered sugar substitute
• 1-2 tsp orange juice
• ½ tsp orange zest (optional garnish)

Instructions

Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.

Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar substitute, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, beat light butter (or applesauce) with egg whites until smooth.
2. Stir in almond milk, orange zest, orange juice, and almond extract.

Assemble the Batter

1. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).

Bake

1. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the top.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Glaze

1. Whisk powdered sugar substitute with orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
2. Garnish with extra orange zest if desired.

Nutritional Information

(Per slice, with glaze)

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 2g (naturally from orange juice)
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW SmartPoints: 4 (with applesauce) or 5 (with light butter).

Tips for Success

1. Boost Protein: Add ¼ cup vanilla protein powder to the batter (adjust points).
2. Nut-Free Option: Skip almonds and use a sprinkle of oats or coconut flakes.
3. Citrus Swap: Try lemon zest/juice for a tangier twist.
4. Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze slices for up to 1 month.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

• Sugar Substitute: Cuts calories without sacrificing sweetness.
• Light Butter/Applesauce: Slashes fat while keeping the cake moist.
• Portion Control: Pre-sliced servings prevent overindulgence.

Serving Ideas

• Brunch Spread: Pair with scrambled egg whites and fresh berries.
• Dessert Upgrade: Serve warm with a dollop of fat-free Greek yogurt.
• Gift Idea: Wrap individual slices in parchment for a thoughtful WW-friendly treat.

This Orange & Almond Coffee Cake is a celebration of bold flavors and smart choices. With its zesty orange aroma, nutty crunch, and tender crumb, it’s a treat that feels indulgent but aligns perfectly with your wellness goals. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this recipe is proof that mindful eating can still mean delicious eating!