Dessert Cake
A moist, light dessert cake made with applesauce and low-fat mix, perfect for health-conscious celebrations or everyday indulgence with a subtle fruity flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cake mix, water, applesauce, and egg whites in a large bowl. Beat on low until moist; then beat on high for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into a 9 x 13-inch pan or into two 9-inch round pans sprayed with cooking spray.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure that your egg whites are at room temperature before beating. You can substitute the applesauce with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a richer taste, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter. This dessert cake is versatile and can be adapted into flavors similar to an Individual Fruit Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of Creamy Caramel Icing for added sweetness. It pairs well with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Pumpkin-Pecan Biscuits for a comforting dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dessert Cake contains roughly 166 calories, with 13g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs instead of just egg whites, but this will change the texture and add more fat to the cake. The cake may also be denser. If you're looking for a lighter option, stick to just the egg whites.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the edges should slightly pull away from the sides of the pan. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry cake.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the cake batter?
Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the batter before pouring it into the pan. Adding a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest can also enhance the flavor profile, making it a more personalized treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).