Butternut Squash Cake

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The squash makes this cake healthier than plain white cake, but without a veggie taste.  The flavor is similar to a light cornbread flavor; for a sweeter taste, add the brown sugar frosting.

½ cup butter or transfat-free margarine, softened

1 cup sugar or sugar substitute (e.g., granulated Splenda)
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup mashed cooked butternut squash
2 teaspoons maple syrup
1½ cups whole wheat pastry flour
1½ cups oat flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup low fat milk
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Cream butter and sugars in a large mixing bowl.  Add eggs, beating well after each.  Mix in squash and maple syrup.  In a separate bowl combine flour, baking powder and baking soda.  Add to wet mixture alternately with milk.  Stir in chopped nuts.

Pour into greased bundt pan, or 9-inch by 13-inch baking pan, or  cupcake tins.  Bake cake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes until toothpick comes out clean.  Reduce cooking time to 20-25 minutes for cupcakes.  Cool at least 10 minutes before removing from bundt pan.

Optional frosting:  

1½ cups brown sugar, packed
3 egg whites
6 tablespoons water
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine brown sugar, egg whites, water, cream of tartar and salt in a saucepan.  Beat on low heat for about 8-10 minutes.  Pour into a mixing bowl, add vanilla and beat on high speed with electric mixer until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.  Spread over top and sides of cake.