Name: Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus 2 teaspoons for topping); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup skim milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 pints raspberries

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you’re craving a delightful dessert that feels indulgent but keeps things light, this Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe is just what you need. Bursting with fresh raspberries and made with simple pantry staples, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a naturally sweet treat that balances moist, fluffy cake with juicy, tart berries. This cake is as charming as it is wholesome, making it an all-time favorite to share with friends and family on any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine separate glass and white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest white bowl on the top left is filled with fresh red raspberries. To the right of it is a clear glass measuring cup with some light cream-colored liquid. Below the raspberries is a small clear glass bowl holding four yellow cubes of butter. To the right of butter, a bigger clear bowl contains a heap of white flour with a slightly uneven surface. Below the flour bowl is a round clear bowl filled with off-white granulated sugar. To the right of sugar, there is a medium brown egg resting on the surface. Below the sugar is a tiny clear bowl with white powder, likely baking powder. To the lower left side of the image is a tiny clear bowl holding a dark amber liquid, likely vanilla extract. Finally, a small clear bowl with white salt is placed at the bottom right. The arrangement creates a clean, tidy view of ingredients on a white marbled background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe come to life, you’ll only need a handful of straightforward ingredients that deliver big flavors and textures. Each one plays a part in creating a light, tender cake with a fruity burst from the fresh raspberries.

Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons): Using butter at room temperature allows for easy creaming with sugar, ensuring a fluffy cake base.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons for topping): Adds just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of crunch on top.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cake’s structure and richness.
Skim milk (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake moist without extra fat, balancing the texture perfectly.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cake’s flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation of the cake, giving it body and crumb.
Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise, keeping it light and airy.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and strengthens flavor complexity.
Fresh raspberries (2 pints): The star ingredient that brings vibrant color and a refreshing tartness.

How to Make Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t forget to grease a 9-inch cake pan to prevent sticking and make cake removal effortless later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the butter and 3/4 cup of sugar together for about 3 minutes. You’re looking for a pale, fluffy mixture – this step incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake stay light as it bakes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg, skim milk, and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly combined. These ingredients create the moisture and richness that keep the cake tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Incorporate

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add half of this dry mix into the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Then add the remaining dry ingredients and stir again. Beat for an additional minute to make the batter fluffy and well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Assemble and Add Raspberries

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pan. Spread it out so the surface is smooth. Then, gently place the raspberries in a single layer on top of the batter. Sprinkle the extra 2 teaspoons of sugar over the berries to give a lovely sugary crust after baking.

Step 6: Bake and Test for Doneness

Place the cake in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Use a wooden skewer or cake tester inserted into the center to check if it’s done – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures your cake is perfectly cooked through without being dry.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes. This resting time helps it set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking apart.

How to Serve Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe

A round metal baking pan holds one layer of pale yellow batter that looks smooth and thick, evenly spread across the base; on top, bright red raspberries are placed in close rows, almost covering the batter, each raspberry showing its tiny textured detail. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light dollop of whipped cream. Fresh raspberry halves or a sprig of mint will add color and an extra hint of freshness that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the raspberries baked in the cake.

Side Dishes

This Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe is wonderful on its own but pairs exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey. For a brunch spread, serve with fresh fruit salad or a cup of herbal tea for a balanced and inviting treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cake in rustic slices garnished individually with berries and a brush of melted dark chocolate for a sophisticated touch. You can also layer slices between light cream cheese frosting for an elegant twist or serve it warm with a splash of almond milk ice cream to delight guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keeping it in the refrigerator is better but wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save your cake for later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It freezes beautifully for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

For a fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm in an oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. This refreshes the cake’s moisture and makes the raspberries taste bright and juicy again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for this Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before placing them on the batter to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.

Is this cake suitable for a low-fat diet?

Yes! Using skim milk and moderate amounts of butter keeps the fat content lower than traditional cakes without sacrificing taste or texture.

Can I substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?

You can substitute, but it might slightly change the texture to be denser and the flavor more nutty. Try using half whole wheat for a nice balance.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

Insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready. If the skewer has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

Can this recipe be made into cupcakes?

Yes, simply pour the batter into lined muffin tins and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a tester comes out clean. It’s a fun way to serve individual portions!

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about baking a dessert that feels indulgent yet embraces the goodness of fresh fruit and balanced ingredients. I can’t recommend this Healthy Raspberry Cake Recipe enough – it’s easy, gorgeous, and downright delicious. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!