Looking for a lighter dessert or just ran out of oil and butter? You can still make a moist, tender cake with no added fats by using smart substitutions that keep the flavor and texture just right.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make a fat-free cake using ingredients like yogurt, applesauce, or banana—great for guilt-free baking without sacrificing taste.
Why Bake Without Oil or Butter?
- Lower in fat and calories
- Great for light desserts and healthy snacks
- Uses simple ingredients like yogurt or fruit
- Perfect for breakfast-style cakes
- Kid-friendly and digestion-friendly
Best Fat Substitutes for Cakes
- Applesauce – Adds moisture and mild sweetness
- Mashed banana – Great for texture and natural flavor
- Greek yogurt or plant yogurt – Adds creaminess
- Pumpkin puree – Moist and rich, with a warm flavor
- Buttermilk or milk – Adds softness and structure
Easy No-Oil, No-Butter Cake Recipe (Banana Yogurt Version)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 bananas)
- ½ cup plain yogurt (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup brown sugar or honey
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat oven
To 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf or round cake pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients
Whisk together banana, yogurt, eggs, sugar (or honey), and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add dry ingredients
Stir in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until just combined. Don’t overmix!
4. Bake
Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Texture
- Use very ripe bananas for more flavor and moisture
- Don’t overbake—this cake stays soft but firms as it cools
- If using honey, reduce the yogurt slightly
- Want extra protein? Use Greek yogurt
Flavor Variations
- Banana-Chocolate – Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips
- Citrus Twist – Add orange or lemon zest
- Coconut Banana Cake – Add shredded coconut to the batter
- Carrot Banana Cake – Stir in grated carrot for moisture and texture
Light Toppings Ideas
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup
- Spread a thin layer of fruit jam
- Top with sliced banana or toasted nuts
- Serve plain with coffee or tea
Storage
- Room temp: 2–3 days (covered)
- Fridge: up to 5 days
- Freezer: up to 1 month
A Healthier Cake That Still Tastes Like Cake
Just because you skip the oil or butter doesn’t mean your cake has to be dry or bland. With the right ingredients—like banana and yogurt—you can bake a treat that’s moist, flavorful, and nourishing.
This recipe proves that healthier baking can still be totally satisfying.
