Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: A Delicious Fall Dessert

Looking for a dessert that’s indulgent yet Weight Watchers-friendly? This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect treat. Moist, flavorful, and spiced with the warm essence of cinnamon, this cake is topped with a creamy frosting that feels luxurious without the extra calories. Whether for a family gathering or a weeknight indulgence, this cake will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you on track.

Ingredients:

For the Applesauce Cake:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/3 cup honey (or a sugar-free sweetener)
• 2 large egg whites (or 1 whole egg)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar (or a sugar-free sweetener like Swerve)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for added texture, adjust points accordingly)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

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

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the applesauce, honey, egg whites, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Make the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

5. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

6. Prepare the Frosting

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to taste.

7. Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and presentation.

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 9 servings):

• Calories: 150-170
• WW Points: 4-5 points per slice (depending on specific brands used)
• Fat: 4g
• Carbs: 26g
• Protein: 4g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Moist and Flavorful: The applesauce adds natural sweetness and keeps the cake moist without needing extra fat.
2. Light Frosting: The cream cheese frosting is lightened up with Greek yogurt and a touch of powdered sugar, making it indulgent but not overly heavy.
3. Weight Watchers-Friendly: Made with wholesome ingredients, this cake satisfies your dessert cravings without blowing your points budget.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for dessert, brunch, or a snack, this applesauce cake is versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Pro Tips:

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or sweetener in both the cake and frosting to suit your taste.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
• Make It Ahead: Bake the cake and prepare the frosting a day in advance. Frost just before serving for best results.

This Weight Watchers Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the ideal combination of wholesome ingredients and decadent flavors. With its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting, it’s a dessert you can enjoy guilt-free. Whether you’re sharing with family or treating yourself, this recipe is a winner. Try it today and discover your new favorite sweet treat!