Low-Fat Pound Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A light and fluffy low-fat pound cake with a tender crumb, perfect for those seeking a healthier dessert option. Its subtle vanilla flavor pairs well with fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar, making it suitable for everyday snacking or special occasions with family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sifted flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

Instructions

  1. Combine sifted flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Make a well in the center; add egg yolks, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla.
  3. Beat at high speed of electric mixer for 5 minutes or until satin smooth.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks before folding them into the batter. If you want to reduce sugar further, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. You can also add zest from a lemon or orange for extra flavor. This recipe can be adapted to various dietary needs by swapping out the vegetable oil for applesauce for a lower-fat option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the low-fat pound cake with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also top it with a light glaze or dusting of powdered sugar. For a special occasion, consider serving it alongside a slice of Ladyfinger Cheese Cake for a unique dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store the low-fat pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Low-Fat Pound Cake contains roughly 68 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.

68 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.5g 1% DV
Carbs 14.8g 5% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 369.7mg 16% DV
Potassium 1285.3mg 27% DV
Cholesterol 0.7mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.2mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 5.5mg 6% DV
Calcium 140.6mg 11% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser cake. To maintain moisture, you might want to add a bit more water or reduce the baking time slightly.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free, and consider adding a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.

How can I add flavor to the pound cake?

You can enhance the flavor by adding extracts such as almond or lemon, or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Additionally, folding in chocolate chips or nuts can provide a delicious twist.

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).

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