Low Fat Coffee Cake

This low fat coffee cake is moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a golden cinnamon streusel—yet it contains just 2.5 grams of fat per slice. By using unsweetened applesauce and fat-free Greek yogurt in place of butter or oil, you still get that classic crumb texture and sweet cinnamon swirl without the guilt. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite hot drink.

About This Recipe

This cake has a soft, tender crumb with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar running through the middle and a crunchy topping that bakes up golden and fragrant. It’s sweet, but not overly so, making it ideal for mornings or lighter desserts.

You can mix it all in one bowl and have it in the oven in under 10 minutes. Whether served warm or at room temp, this healthier twist on classic coffee cake is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Diet

Fat-free Greek yogurt and applesauce provide moisture and body without oil or butter, cutting saturated fat dramatically. The cinnamon not only adds comforting flavor but may also help regulate blood sugar. It’s a smart swap for traditional coffee cake, especially for those looking to keep their breakfast light.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

This easy recipe uses everyday ingredients to create a cozy cake with a sweet, cinnamon-streusel twist.

For the Cake

• All-Purpose Flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides structure with a soft texture.
• Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): Lifts the cake and keeps it fluffy.
• Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with yogurt for leavening.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth throughout the cake.
• Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Sweetens and adds a light molasses flavor.
• Fat-Free Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Keeps it moist and tender.
• Unsweetened Applesauce (1/4 cup): Replaces butter while adding moisture.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth of flavor.

For the Streusel Topping & Swirl

• Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweet and caramel-like.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Warm and cozy.
• Whole Wheat Panko or Quick Oats (2 tablespoons): Optional, adds crunch with minimal fat.

How to Make Low Fat Coffee Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch pan or line with parchment.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk yogurt, applesauce, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Make streusel: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon (plus panko/oats if using).
6. Assemble cake: Pour half the batter into the pan. Sprinkle half the streusel. Add remaining batter, then top with the rest of the streusel.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool before slicing. Serve warm or room temp.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• Add chopped apples or blueberries for extra flavor and moisture.
• Swap in whole wheat pastry flour for more fiber.
• Make it dairy-free with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
• For a glaze, mix 1/4 cup powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon milk and drizzle over cooled cake.

How to Store Leftovers

Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It also freezes well—wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
• Calories: 135 kcal
• Fat: 2.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Sodium: 140 mg

Try More Recipes:

• Low Fat Angel Food Cake
• Low Fat Apple Cake
• Low Fat Applesauce Cake