If you’re someone who loves cakes but is looking for a healthier alternative that still tastes amazing, search no further! This scrumptious carrot cake recipe is bound to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. Packed with whole wheat flour, unsweetened applesauce, honey, and grated carrots, this dessert is rich in fiber and natural sweetness. Furthermore, it’s loaded with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger that give it a unique flavor profile. For added crunch, you can even add chopped walnuts that complement the texture perfectly.
Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious dessert or a sweet snack, this carrot cake is the perfect guilt-free option. Follow the straightforward recipe for a quick and easy bake time of just 25 to 30 minutes. Enjoy it straight out of the oven for a warm treat or let it cool down before indulging in a slice (or two!).
This cake is the ideal choice if you’re watching your sugar and calorie intake but still want to indulge in a tasty treat. So, go ahead and try making this healthy carrot cake recipe yourself, and you’ll see why it’s a winning choice that won’t disappoint your taste buds.
Healthy Carrot Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cake Pan
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (182.6 g) whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.2 teaspoon) ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.2 teaspoon) salt
- 1/2 cup (123.8 g) unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup (171.9 g) honey
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (194.8 g) carrots grated
- 1/2 cup (59.3 g) walnuts chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix in unsweetened applesauce, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts (optional).
- Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch cake pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool down before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
Storage Tips
The Healthy Carrot Cake recipe can last up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer. Here are the instructions for storing, freezing, defrosting, etc.:
How to Store:
Once the cake has cooled down to room temperature, wipe off any excess moisture or crumbs from the outside. Then, wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. Alternatively, you can store individual slices in airtight containers.
How to Freeze:
If you want to freeze the entire cake, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Then, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. If you’re freezing individual slices, wrap each slice with plastic wrap and slide them into a freezer bag. Make sure to label the container or freezer bag with the recipe name and date so you remember when you stored it.
How to Defrost:
To defrost the entire cake, remove it from the freezer and unwrap the foil and plastic wrap. Then, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Alternatively, you can let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. If you’re defrosting individual slices, remove them from the freezer bag and let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
Additional tips:
– Make sure to let the cake cool completely before storing, freezing, or slicing.
– If the cake has cream cheese frosting or any other perishable frosting, it’s best to store it in the fridge.
– Before serving, you can heat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it up. Alternatively, let it come to room temperature for a few hours.
Recipe Variations
1. Gluten-Free Carrot Cake – Replace regular wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a cake that’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease.
2. Vegan Carrot Cake – Swap out the eggs and dairy for substitutes like applesauce, almond milk, and coconut oil to create a moist and delicious vegan cake.
3. Low-Fat Carrot Cake – Cut back on the oil and substitute with unsweetened applesauce for a lower calorie version of this tasty classic.
4. Carrot Cake Cupcakes – Bake the batter in a muffin tin for individual portions that are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick snack.
5. Sugar-Free Carrot Cake – Use a natural sweetener such as stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol to create a cake that’s great for those watching their sugar intake.
6. Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting – Bake your carrot cake recipe into muffins and top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a portable and indulgent snack.
7. Carrot Cake Oatmeal – Add shredded carrots, cinnamon, and maple syrup to your morning oatmeal for a filling and healthy breakfast that tastes like dessert.
What To Serve With
1. Cream cheese frosting (made with low-fat cream cheese and powdered sugar)
2. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries
3. A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream
4. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for crunch
5. A side of fresh fruit salad for added nutrition
6. A glass of cold milk or almond milk for a refreshing drink
7. A hot cup of tea or coffee to complement its sweet flavor.
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