Glazed Pound Cake Perfection: A Weight Watchers-Friendly Delight

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for creating a delicious and Weight Watchers-friendly Glazed Pound Cake. This recipe has been meticulously adapted to fit within your SmartPoints range while preserving the classic, buttery flavor and satisfying texture of a traditional pound cake. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, a delightful dessert, or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence without compromising your wellness goals.

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Opt for a high-quality flour to ensure a smooth texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise evenly.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the cake.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Use light butter or a butter substitute to reduce points.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – Consider a sugar substitute like erythritol to cut down on SmartPoints.
  • 2 large eggs – Adds structure and moisture to the cake.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a rich, aromatic flavor.
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt – Non-fat or 2% yogurt will keep the points low while adding creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup milk – Skim milk or almond milk can be used for fewer SmartPoints.

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar – You can use powdered sugar substitutes for fewer points.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for a bright, zesty flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon water – To achieve the right glaze consistency.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the lemon flavor and enhances the glaze.

Equipment Needed

  • 9×5-inch loaf pan – For baking the pound cake.
  • Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
  • Electric mixer or whisk – To cream the butter and sugar.
  • Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Cooling rack – To cool the cake evenly.
  • Spatula – To smooth the batter and glaze.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

a. Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the proper temperature for even baking.

b. Prepare the Pan:

  • Lightly grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

2. Make the Pound Cake Batter

a. Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed.

b. Cream Butter and Sugar:

  • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. If using a sugar substitute, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

c. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

d. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the Greek yogurt and milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.

3. Bake the Pound Cake

a. Pour Batter into Pan:

  • Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.

b. Bake:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The cake should be golden brown and set.

c. Cool:

  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Let the cake cool completely before glazing.

4. Prepare the Glaze

a. Mix Glaze Ingredients:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, water, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed; the glaze should be thick but pourable.

b. Glaze the Cake:

  • Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to flow down the sides. Let the glaze set before slicing.

5. Serve and Enjoy

a. Slice and Serve:

  • Slice the pound cake into 12 servings. Serve as a dessert or with a cup of tea or coffee.

b. Store:

  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 12 servings total)

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 15g

Weight Watchers (WW) Points

  • SmartPoints®: 5 points per serving (based on the assumption of 12 servings total)

Useful Tips

  1. Lightening Up the Recipe: Substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative and use light butter to lower the points. Greek yogurt adds moisture while keeping the recipe lower in fat.
  2. Glazing Tips: Ensure the cake is completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting or running off.
  3. Flavor Variations: Enhance the glaze with additional flavorings like lemon zest or a splash of almond extract.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined.
  2. Underbaking: Ensure the cake is fully baked by checking with a toothpick to avoid a soggy center.

Conclusion

Our Weight Watchers-friendly Glazed Pound Cake provides a classic dessert experience with a lower SmartPoints profile. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a sweet treat without deviating from their wellness goals. The recipe is designed to offer indulgence in a healthier form, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.

Additional Notes:

  • Meal Prep: This cake can be prepared in advance and stored for convenience throughout the week.
  • Customization: Feel free to add nuts, fruits, or flavorings to make the cake uniquely yours.

Enjoy the rich taste of this Weight Watchers-friendly Glazed Pound Cake, knowing you are staying on track with your health and wellness goals!