Carrot Walnut Cake: The Ultimate Comforting Dessert for Fall and Beyond

Craving a moist, flavorful cake that doesn’t derail your weight-loss journey? This Carrot Walnut Cake is the perfect solution. Packed with wholesome ingredients like carrots and walnuts, this cake is rich in flavor yet light on calories and points. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this healthier version of a classic carrot cake is sure to delight.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated carrots (about 2 large carrots)
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease or line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Stir until all dry ingredients are well mixed.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and raisins (if using).

5. Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Frost and Serve

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, you can serve it as-is, or top it with a light cream cheese frosting or whipped cream if desired.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: 160
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• WW Points: 4 (depending on your plan)

Why This Recipe is a Winner

1. Light and Moist: The applesauce and Greek yogurt add moisture without extra calories or fat.
2. Healthier Ingredients: Whole wheat flour provides fiber, and walnuts offer healthy fats.
3. Less Sugar: The honey or maple syrup replaces refined sugar, making this a better option for weight-conscious eaters.

Serving Suggestions

• Light Frosting: Top with a low-fat cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat without overloading on points.
• As a Snack: Serve a slice of this cake as a satisfying snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Breakfast Cake: It’s also great as a breakfast option, paired with a protein shake or some Greek yogurt.

Tips for Success

1. Grate the Carrots Finely: This helps the carrots integrate smoothly into the cake, ensuring a soft texture.
2. Add Flavor with Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste. You could also add a dash of ground ginger or cloves for extra warmth.
3. Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

This Carrot Walnut Cake is a perfect balance of health and indulgence. With its rich flavor, moist texture, and lightened-up ingredients, it’s a sweet treat that won’t break your points budget. Serve it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast, and enjoy a classic cake in a way that supports your healthy lifestyle.