If you're a fan of classic Southern desserts, this Kentucky Butter Cake is sure to win you over. Traditionally known for its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture, this version retains all the deliciousness while swapping out some of the traditional ingredients for healthier alternatives. Perfect for a special occasion or just when you're in the mood for a sweet treat, this cake is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
What sets this recipe apart is the combination of almond flour and Greek yogurt, which provides a tender crumb while keeping the cake low in carbs. A touch of unsweetened applesauce replaces some of the butter, ensuring the cake remains moist and flavorful. Topped with a sugar-free vanilla syrup that soaks into the cake, each bite is a little piece of heaven.
Light Butter or Butter Substitute: Melts into the cake, giving it a rich finish.
Sugar Substitute: A sweet syrup without the added calories.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the buttery flavor of the syrup.
Water: Helps dissolve the sugar substitute and creates a pourable syrup.
How to Make Our Kentucky Butter Cake
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan.
Mix the Batter: Combine the almond flour, yogurt, applesauce, eggs, sugar substitute, baking powder, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Prepare the Syrup: While the cake is baking, melt the butter and mix it with the sugar substitute, vanilla, and water.
Finish the Cake: Pour the syrup over the warm cake, letting it soak in before serving.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storing Leftovers: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with whipped cream or sugar-free vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Tips & FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
This cake is naturally gluten-free, thanks to the use of almond flour. Ensure that all other ingredients used, like baking powder and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free.
What can I substitute for applesauce?
If you're out of applesauce, mashed bananas or additional Greek yogurt can be used, though they will slightly alter the flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the non-fat Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt, and use a dairy-free butter substitute for the syrup.
Is there a way to reduce the fat content further?
While the recipe is already lower in fat due to the light butter and applesauce, you can use fat-free Greek yogurt or skip the syrup if you're aiming to cut back even more.
This Kentucky Butter Cake offers the same rich, buttery flavor as the classic version but with a healthier twist, making it perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without derailing your wellness goals.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2Cup Almond Flour (230g)
0.5Cup Non-Fat Greek Yogurt (115g)
0.25Cup Unsweetened Applesauce (50g)
2Large Eggs
0.6Cup Sugar Substitute (120g)
1tsp Baking Powder
1tsp Vanilla Extract
For the Syrup:
2tbsp Light Butter or Butter Substitute
0.75Cup Sugar Substitute (60g)
1tbsp Vanilla Extract
2tbsp Water
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, non-fat Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, sugar substitute, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, forming a smooth batter.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
Prepare the Syrup:
While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, melt the light butter over low heat. Add the sugar substitute, vanilla extract, and water. Stir continuously until the sugar substitute is fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Finish the Cake:
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately poke holes all over the surface with a skewer or fork. Pour the warm syrup evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely.
Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 9
Amount Per Serving
Calories180kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat12g19%
Total Carbohydrate8g3%
Dietary Fiber3g12%
Sugars1g
Protein5g10%
Points per serving 5
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Kentucky Butter Cake has always been one of my guilty pleasures, but this version allows me to indulge without the guilt. The almond flour gives it a rich texture, and the syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the perfect treat to share with friends or keep all to yourself!
Hi, I'm Kristy Cook, A passionate food enthusiast and recipe creator. I love crafting delicious, healthy meals that are both nutritious and easy to prepare. My goal is to inspire you to embrace wholesome cooking in your everyday life, making it simple and enjoyable.