why make this recipe
This Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also a guilt-free treat that incorporates nutritious ingredients. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave something sweet. This cake is moist, flavorful, and offers a delightful twist with the creamy frosting, making it a fantastic dessert choice that everyone will love.
how to make Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cup blanched almond flour
- 1 cup oat flour (gluten free if preferred)
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup neutral olive oil
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (0%, 2% or 4% work)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz. cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tbsp. butter
- 1/3 cup confectioners sugar
- 2 tbsp. maple syrup
- splash of vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. cinnamon or pumpkin spice
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8X8 pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, brown sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, yogurt, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the dry ingredients into the wet and mix using a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined.
- Bake for approximately 33-35 minutes. Check to make sure a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing all of the ingredients together using a hand mixer until creamy and smooth.
- Once the cake has baked, let it cool. Frost with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle cinnamon on top. Enjoy! Store covered in the fridge for 3-4 days.
how to serve Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can cut it into squares and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a great addition to dessert platters during parties or holiday celebrations.
how to store Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To store the Healthy Pumpkin Cake, keep it covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container or wrap it well with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and flavor.
tips to make Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor, or canned pumpkin will work.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for a smooth frosting.
- Adjust the sweetness of the frosting by adding more or less sugar according to your taste.
- For a healthier option, reduce the sugar in the cake slightly without affecting the texture.
variation
You can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the cake batter for added crunch. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or a plant-based yogurt.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free oat flour to make this cake completely gluten-free.
2. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake before frosting it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
3. How can I make the cake sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup in the recipe.