Easy Apple, Fig and Walnut Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re searching for a delicious yet healthy cake to add to your dessert table, look no further than the Easy Apple, Fig, and Walnut Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. This high-protein, lower-calorie delight is made with nutritious ingredients that offer a fantastic flavor profile without the guilt. Perfect for weight loss or anyone watching their sugar intake, this recipe blends the sweetness of apples and figs with the crunch of walnuts, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Easy Apple, Fig and Walnut Cake

This Easy Apple, Fig, and Walnut Cake is not just a sweet treat; it’s also a healthy version packed with nutrients. The inclusion of fruits like apples and figs provides natural sweetness and dietary fiber, promoting good digestive health. Additionally, walnuts contribute healthy fats and protein, making it suitable for those on a high-protein meal plan. With a delightful maple cream cheese frosting, this cake remains a lighter option, letting you indulge without the extra calories.

Whether you are meal prepping for the week or planning to serve guests, this cake is great for all occasions. It’s also diabetic-friendly, allowing those managing their blood sugar levels to enjoy a slice of yumminess.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Mixing Bowl

A mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients smoothly. Opt for a large bowl to accommodate the volume of the batter.

Cake Pan

A standard round or square cake pan will do the job perfectly for baking the cake. Ensure it is well-greased or lined with parchment paper for easy removal.

Electric Mixer

An electric mixer can make the job of mixing your ingredients more efficient, especially for achieving a creamy frosting.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the correct amounts of each ingredient.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredient 1: Apples

Three medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced into 3/4cm cubes, provide the primary fruit element in this cake. They add moisture, sweetness, and dietary fiber, promoting good digestive health.

Ingredient 2: Butter

225 grams of melted butter play a key role in providing richness and moisture to the cake. Butter aids in binding the ingredients together, resulting in a tender crumb.

Ingredient 3: White Sugar

Using 220 grams of white sugar (1 cup) adds sweetness. Pairing it with brown sugar enhances the flavor by creating a more caramel-like taste.

Ingredient 4: Light Brown Sugar

The 50 grams of light brown sugar (1/4 cup loosely packed) deepens the overall sweetness and adds a hint of molasses.

Ingredient 5: Eggs

Two lightly beaten eggs are essential for binding the ingredients and providing structure to the cake.

Ingredient 6: Vanilla Extract

One teaspoon of vanilla extract adds lovely aromatic notes, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.

Ingredient 7: Semi-Dried Figs

One cup of chopped semi-dried figs (sultana-sized pieces) provides natural sweetness and a chewy texture, making this cake unique.

Ingredient 8: Calvados Brandy

Two tablespoons of calvados brandy (or regular brandy) adds depth of flavor. This ingredient is optional but can elevate the overall taste profile.

Ingredient 9: Plain Flour

For structure, 300 grams (2 cups) of plain flour is necessary. You can substitute it with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.

Ingredient 10: Baking Powder

One teaspoon of baking powder is crucial for helping the cake rise and achieve a light texture.

Ingredient 11: Baking Soda

One teaspoon of baking soda balances the acidity and helps the cake leaven nicely.

Ingredient 12: Ground Cinnamon

One and a half teaspoons of ground cinnamon give the cake a warm, comforting flavor, suitable for any season.

Ingredient 13: Mixed Spice

Three-quarters of a teaspoon of mixed spice add complexity to the overall flavor.

Ingredient 14: Nutmeg

Half a teaspoon of nutmeg offers a warm aroma, complementing the other spices perfectly.

Ingredient 15: Fine Sea Salt

Adding half a teaspoon of fine sea salt enhances the flavors of the cake and balances the sweetness.

Ingredient 16: Chopped Walnuts

Sixty grams (1/2 cup) of chopped walnuts provide a delightful crunch and are a good source of healthy fats and protein.

Ingredient 17: Cream Cheese

Two hundred fifty grams of full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature, is used for the frosting. Cream cheese gives the frosting a rich and creamy texture.

Ingredient 18: Butter

Ninety grams of room temperature butter add creaminess to the frosting, making it easier to spread.

Ingredient 19: Brown Sugar

Seventy grams of brown sugar in the frosting creates a slight caramel taste, enhancing the sweet factor.

Ingredient 20: Pure Maple Syrup

Four tablespoons of pure maple syrup in the frosting adds natural sweetness and a delightful flavor.

HOW TO MAKE Easy Apple, Fig and Walnut Cake

To make the cake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Preparing the oven in advance ensures even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan

Grease your cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This step helps in easy removal of the cake once baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, mixed spice, nutmeg, and fine sea salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, white sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, figs, and calvados brandy (if using). Mix until well blended.

Step 5: Combine the Mixes

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, carefully folding until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can make the cake dense. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts.

Step 6: Pour into Cake Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

To make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Step 8: Mix Cream Cheese and Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Add Sugar

Gradually add the brown sugar and continue beating until well blended, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 10: Add Maple Syrup

Finally, add the maple syrup and mix until fully combined, creating a smooth frosting.

To Serve:

Step 11: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the maple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides.

Step 12: Slice and Enjoy

Cut the cake into slices and serve. Enjoy your delicious, healthy dessert with family and friends!

TIPS AND TRICKS

• For a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• To make this cake even more heart-healthy, consider using applesauce instead of some of the butter to reduce fat content.
• Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just remember to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Easy Apple, Fig and Walnut Cake FAQ

Can I make this recipe diabetic-friendly?

Yes! To make this cake diabetic-friendly, you can substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol. Additionally, using whole-grain flour can enhance the fiber content, aiding blood sugar management.

How can I store this cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure it is wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.

Is this cake suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Easy Apple, Fig, and Walnut Cake is a great option for meal prep. You can slice and individually wrap pieces, making it easy to grab a healthy snack or dessert throughout the week.

Is this cake low in calories?

Compared to traditional cakes, this recipe is relatively low in calories due to the use of fruits, reduced sugar options, and the wholesome ingredients. It can fit well into a balanced diet aimed at weight loss when consumed in moderation.

CONCLUSION

The Easy Apple, Fig, and Walnut Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful blend of flavor and health benefits. With its use of nutritious ingredients, this cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a high-protein meal, a lower-calorie dessert, or a diabetic-friendly option, this cake is versatile enough to fit many dietary needs.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the moist, flavorful cake that everyone will love. Share your experiences and any variations you tried in the comments below! Happy baking!

Easy Apple, Fig, and Walnut Cake

A delicious high-protein, lower-calorie cake made with apples, figs, and walnuts, topped with a creamy maple cream cheese frosting. Perfect for weight loss or diabetics.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 3 medium Apples, peeled, cored, and diced Diced into 3/4cm cubes
• 225 grams Butter, melted Provides richness and moisture
• 220 grams White Sugar Adds sweetness
• 50 grams Light Brown Sugar Enhances flavor with a hint of molasses
• 2 large Eggs, lightly beaten Bind the ingredients
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor
• 1 cup Semi-Dried Figs, chopped Adds chewiness and natural sweetness
• 2 tablespoons Calvados Brandy Optional, enhances flavor
• 300 grams Plain Flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Helps the cake rise
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Balances acidity
• 1.5 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon Provides warm flavor
• 0.75 teaspoon Mixed Spice Adds complexity
• 0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg Complements other spices
• 0.5 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Enhances flavors
• 60 grams Chopped Walnuts Provides crunch and healthy fats

For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

• 250 grams Cream Cheese, at room temperature Rich and creamy texture
• 90 grams Butter, at room temperature Adds creaminess
• 70 grams Brown Sugar Enhances sweetness
• 4 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup Adds natural sweetness

Method

 

Making the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease your cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, mixed spice, nutmeg, and fine sea salt.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, white sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, figs, and calvados brandy (if using). Mix until well blended.
5. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, folding until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and tap the pan to remove air bubbles.
7. Bake for approximately 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Making the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the brown sugar and continue beating until well blended.
3. Add the maple syrup and mix until fully combined.

Serving

1. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the maple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides.
2. Slice the cake and serve.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Can freeze for longer storage.