Sam’s Famous Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in a classic dessert without derailing your Weight Watchers journey! Sam’s Famous Carrot Cake is a beloved recipe reimagined with smart swaps to keep it light, moist, and utterly delicious. Topped with a velvety light cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you crave a slice of cozy comfort—all while staying on plan. it’s proof that you can have your cake and eat it too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Guilt-Free Decadence: All the spice, sweetness, and texture of traditional carrot cake—without the heavy points.
• Smart Swaps: Applesauce replaces oil, egg whites cut cholesterol, and light cream cheese slashes frosting calories.
• Crowd-Pleasing: No one will guess it’s Weight Watchers-friendly!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze for stress-free celebrations.
• Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or pineapple for extra flair (adjust points as needed).

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for extra fiber)
• 1 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve or monk fruit)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained, optional for moisture)
• 1/4 cup fat-free Greek yogurt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz light cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar substitute
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup light whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip Lite)

Instructions

Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.

Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar substitute, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Stir in applesauce, vanilla, Greek yogurt, and crushed pineapple (if using).
2. Fold in grated carrots.

Bake the Cake

1. Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
2. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened light cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar substitute and vanilla. Mix until creamy.
3. Gently fold in light whipped topping for a fluffy texture.

Frost & Serve

1. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into 12 squares.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or finely grated carrot curls.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 4g (naturally occurring from carrots/pineapple)
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW SmartPoints: 6 (without optional add-ins) or 8 (with pineapple/nuts).

Tips for Success

1. Boost Flavor: Add 1/4 cup raisins or 2 tbsp chopped walnuts (add 1-2 points per serving).
2. Make Cupcakes: Portion batter into a muffin tin for easy single servings (bake 18-20 minutes).
3. Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze unfrosted cake for 3 months.
4. Sugar-Free Glaze: Skip frosting and drizzle with a mix of powdered sugar substitute + almond milk.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

• Applesauce & Greek Yogurt: Replace oil and butter to cut fat without sacrificing moisture.
• Light Cream Cheese: Delivers the tangy frosting flavor with fewer points.
• Veggie-Powered: Carrots add natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.

Serving Ideas

• Brunch Star: Pair with a fruit salad and herbal tea.
• Holiday Hit: Serve as a showstopper at Thanksgiving or Easter.
• Midweek Treat: Enjoy a square with black coffee for a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.

Sam’s Famous Weight Watchers Carrot Cake is a triumph of flavor and smart eating. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and luscious frosting, it’s a dessert that feels indulgent while aligning perfectly with your wellness goals. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be deliciously rewarding.