This Healthy Carrot Cake is a perfect blend of delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a guilt-free dessert. Unlike traditional carrot cakes loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats, this recipe uses whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners, and heart-healthy ingredients to create a moist, flavorful, and wholesome treat. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh carrots and nuts, this cake is ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert. The addition of Greek yogurt enhances its richness, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring out a warm, comforting aroma. This cake is easy to prepare and will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- ½ cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk well to ensure even distribution.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures – Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold using a spatula. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Add Carrots and Nuts – Fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts (or pecans), and raisins if using. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Baking Pan – Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan lightly to remove air bubbles.
- Bake the Cake – Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Before Serving – Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Frosting – For a healthier frosting, mix Greek yogurt with a bit of honey and spread it over the cooled cake. Garnish with extra nuts or shredded coconut for added texture.
- Serve and Enjoy – Slice and serve your healthy carrot cake as a wholesome dessert or a nutritious snack. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
This Healthy Carrot Cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect alternative to traditional cakes. Its natural sweetness and rich texture make it an absolute delight without compromising on health. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!