Heart-Healthy Classic Red Velvet Cake

Indulge guilt-free with our Heart-Healthy Classic Red Velvet Cake, a wholesome twist on the beloved dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or elegance. Made with nutrient-rich whole wheat pastry flour, creamy Greek yogurt, and a hint of unsweetened applesauce, this cake offers a lightened-up yet luscious texture. The striking red hue, derived from a touch of food coloring, pairs beautifully with the velvety, tangy Neufchâtel cream cheese frosting. Unlike traditional recipes, this heart-smart version uses healthier fat alternatives like canola oil and buttermilk to keep it moist without loading up on excess calories or saturated fats. Optional chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and omega-3 boost. Perfect for any celebration or special occasion, this revamped classic is a treat your heart will love as much as your taste buds.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup canola oil
• 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 0.75 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 large egg
• 1.25 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 8 ounces neufchatel cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons skim milk
• 0.5 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 2

In a large bowl, sift together the whole wheat pastry flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

Step 3

In another large mixing bowl, whisk together the canola oil, applesauce, and Greek yogurt until well combined.

Step 4

Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, vinegar, egg, granulated sugar, and red food coloring to the oil mixture. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 8

While the cakes are baking, prepare the frosting by beating the neufchatel cream cheese with the powdered sugar and skim milk until smooth and creamy.

Step 9

Once the cakes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 10

Once cooled, spread a layer of the cream cheese frosting on top of one cake. Place the second cake on top and spread frosting over the top and sides.

Step 11

Optionally, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added texture and nutrition.

Step 12

Slice and serve this heart-healthy red velvet cake with love and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1674.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4707.0

Total Fat 223.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 50.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 29.0g
Cholesterol 394.1mg	0%
Sodium 3702.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 612.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.5g	0%
Total Sugars 410.5g
Protein 96.6g	0%

Vitamin D 181.3IU	0%
Calcium 860.9mg	0%
Iron 13.8mg	0%
Potassium 2436.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.5%

Protein: 8.0%

Carbs: 50.5%