Healthy Delicious Carrot Cake
Moist, naturally sweetened, and packed with nutrients.
This Healthy Carrot Cake is a guilt-free dessert that combines the deliciousness of carrot cake with wholesome ingredients. Made with whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners like maple syrup, and packed with shredded carrots, this cake is moist and full of flavour. With a light cream cheese frosting (or dairy-free alternative), it’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
For the Frosting (optional):
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (or dairy-free cream cheese)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
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Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the shredded carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing.
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Make the Frosting: If desired, beat the cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Spread the frosting evenly on top of the cooled cake.
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Serve: Slice and enjoy!
This Healthy Carrot Cake is a lighter, more wholesome version of the classic dessert. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still being packed with nutrients from the carrots, nuts, and whole grains. The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful touch without being too heavy.
Optional Additions:
- Add Spice: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger or cloves for extra warmth.
- For a Crunch: Top with extra chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or raisins for texture.
- Make it Vegan: Use flax eggs and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a fully vegan version.