Looking for a cake that satisfies your sweet tooth without the sugar rush? This Timeless Sugar-Free Vanilla Cake is perfect for you. It's a delightful treat that captures all the classic flavors you love, minus the sugar.
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cake, creating the base for all the fluffy goodness. Granulated erythritol is our sugar substitute; it's a natural sweetener that doesn't spike blood sugar levels. Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture, while unsweetened applesauce keeps the cake tender and adds a hint of natural sweetness. Milk helps combine all the ingredients smoothly, ensuring a consistent batter. Eggs bind everything together and help the cake rise. Vanilla extract is the star of the show, infusing the cake with its classic, aromatic flavor. Baking powder is our leavening agent that gives the cake its lift, and a touch of salt enhances all the flavors.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of sugar-free ice cream. For a pop of color and a burst of freshness, top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you're feeling a bit more indulgent, a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate sauce would complement the vanilla beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) — this ensures your cake will bake evenly right from the start. Take a 9-inch round cake pan and grease it well; this prevents your cake from sticking and makes for a smooth removal later.
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and erythritol until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to creating a creamy base that will blend beautifully with the other ingredients. Add the eggs in one at a time, beating well after each one. This gradual addition helps maintain the mixture’s light texture.
Next, stir in the vanilla extract and applesauce until everything is well combined. The vanilla adds that nostalgic aroma, while the applesauce keeps the cake moist.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix is then added to the wet ingredients gradually. Alternate additions with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mix. This technique ensures a smooth batter without overmixing.
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.