Irresistible Lemon Cake To Die For: A Weight Watchers Low Point Recipe

Introduction

Indulge in a delectable lemon cake that’s been specially crafted to align with Weight Watchers’ SmartPoints system. This Irresistible Lemon Cake is a refreshing, light dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it perfect for those adhering to a WW plan. This version of lemon cake is not only low in SmartPoints but also rich in taste, ensuring you enjoy every bite while staying on track with your weight loss goals.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour – Choose a lighter flour to keep the points low.
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking powder – Ensures the cake rises properly.
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) salt – Enhances the flavor.
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated erythritol – A low-calorie sweetener for reduced SmartPoints.
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened almond milk – A low-calorie milk alternative.
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice – Adds tartness and flavor.
  • 2 large egg whites – Lower in calories and fat compared to whole eggs.
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract – Provides a subtle sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) plain Greek yogurt (non-fat) – Adds moisture and protein without extra points.
  • 1 tablespoon (10 g) lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon flavor.

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered erythritol – A powdered sweetener for the glaze.
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice – Complements the lemon flavor in the cake.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
  1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
  • Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This combination provides the structure for the cake.
  1. Combine Wet Ingredients:
  • In a separate large bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated erythritol, 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 large egg whites, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  1. Add Lemon Zest:
  • Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to infuse the batter with additional lemon flavor.
  1. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in a dense cake.
  1. Pour Batter into Pan:
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  1. Bake the Cake:
  • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
  1. Cool the Cake:
  • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  1. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
    • While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1/4 cup of powdered erythritol and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice until smooth.
  2. Glaze the Cake:
    • Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. This adds a sweet-tart finish and enhances the lemon flavor.
  3. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Slice the cake and serve. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or as a light dessert after a meal.
  4. Storage Instructions:
    • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it will keep for up to 1 week.
  5. Reheating Instructions:
    • If the cake is refrigerated and needs to be warmed, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, you can warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
  6. Nutritional Benefits:
    • This lemon cake recipe uses non-fat Greek yogurt and erythritol to keep the SmartPoints low while still providing a moist, flavorful dessert. The almond milk adds a subtle nutty flavor without extra calories.
  7. Dietary Considerations:
    • This cake is suitable for those following a Weight Watchers plan, and it’s also a good option for those who need to avoid excess sugar and fat.
  8. Flavor Variations:
    • For a different twist, try adding fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter. These fruits are relatively low in SmartPoints and complement the lemon flavor.
  9. Health Benefits:
    • Lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, while Greek yogurt offers protein and probiotics. Erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that doesn’t spike blood sugar levels.
  10. SmartPoints Calculation:
    • The SmartPoints for this recipe have been calculated to be as low as possible while still retaining flavor and texture. This ensures you can enjoy a slice without straying from your WW goals.
  11. Customization Tips:
    • Adjust the amount of erythritol based on your taste preferences. For an even lighter version, reduce the amount of glaze or skip it entirely.

Nutritional Information and SmartPoints

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 Slice)

  • Calories: 120
  • Total Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 7g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Protein: 5g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints Value:

  • SmartPoints: 3 (per slice, based on WW 2024 calculation)

Conclusion

The Irresistible Lemon Cake To Die For is a delightful dessert that fits perfectly into a Weight Watchers plan. With careful ingredient selection and portion control, this recipe allows you to enjoy a light, flavorful cake without compromising your SmartPoints budget. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this lemon cake provides a refreshing option that satisfies your taste buds while supporting your weight management goals. Enjoy every bite of this luscious, guilt-free dessert!