Keto Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped pecans or walnuts with a bit of sweetener and pumpkin pie spice to create the crunch topping.
7. Sprinkle the crunch topping evenly over the batter.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is set and the topping is golden brown.
9. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.

Storage Methods:

Store Keto Pumpkin Crunch Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and texture. Properly stored, it can last for several days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for gatherings or meal prep.

Variations:

• For added richness, consider adding a layer of keto-friendly cream cheese frosting or whipped coconut cream.
• Experiment with different nuts or seeds for the crunch topping, such as almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
• Incorporate shredded coconut or unsweetened cocoa nibs into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Almond Flour: Rich in protein and healthy fats, almond flour is a low-carb alternative to traditional wheat flour, making it suitable for keto diets.
• Pumpkin Puree: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the cake while providing numerous health benefits.
• Coconut Oil: A source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil supports ketosis and may aid in weight loss when consumed as part of a ketogenic diet.

The Keto Pumpkin Crunch Cake is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, offering a wholesome and delicious treat that aligns with ketogenic dietary principles. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot tea on a chilly evening or served as a festive dessert at gatherings, this cake is sure to delight taste buds while supporting a healthy lifestyle.