The ULTIMATE Healthy Carrot Cake Recipe (No Refined Sugar! Gluten Free!) 

Ingredients Cooking spray or oil, for pan 1/3 cup currants OR ½ cup raisins 3 medium carrots (7-8oz /220g), peeled, trimmed and coarsely chopped 2 large eggs 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/4 cup milk or nut milk 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly (or you can use butter or a neutral vegetable oil) 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups (165g) almond flour 1/2 cup (42g) unsweetened shredded coconut 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/3 cup (38g) chopped walnuts or pecans, plus more for garnish (optional) Maple Cream Cheese Frosting (see recipe below!) Instructions Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Grease an 8-inch baking pan with coconut oil or cooking spray. Line the pan crosswise with parchment paper, leaving an overhang (this will make it easy to pull the cake out of the baking pan later, but you can skip this step and simply serve the cake in the pan). Put the currants (or raisins) in a small bowl and cover them with warm water. Let sit. Put the carrots in the Vitamix or food processor. If using a Vitamix, turn the machine on and gradually increase the speed to medium (Variable 6 or 7), stirring with the tamper. Blend until the carrots are very finely chopped but not pureed (it will only take a few seconds)-the carrots should look a bit bigger than rice. If using a food processor, pulse until very finely chopped. Scrape the sides and give the carrots one more pulse to make sure they're evenly chopped. Transfer to a bowl. Put the container back on the base (no need to wash it-it’s ok if there are still some carrots around the edges and bottom), and add the eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, milk, coconut oil, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, salt and vanilla. Blend until smooth. Add the almond flour, shredded coconut and baking powder. Blend on low (Variable 2 or 3) or pulse (if using a food processor) until incorporated. Drain the currants (or raisins), and add them to the batter along with the chopped carrots and nuts (if using). Blend on low (Variable 1), stirring with the tamper, or pulse if using a food processor, until just incorporated (don't over-mix). Using a rubber spatula, scrape the sides and stir to fully incorporate all of the ingredients. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it in an even layer. Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Set the pan on a cooling rack and let cool 10 minutes. Run a thin knife along the sides of the pan then carefully use the parchment handles to transfer the cake to a rack (if you prefer, you can skip this step and serve the cake straight from the pan). Let the cake cool completely. Spread the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting evenly over the top of the cake. If you’d like, sprinkle the top of the cake with chopped nuts. Refrigerate the cake for 15 minutes, or until you’re ready to serve. Notes Do Ahead: The frosted cake can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. The unfrosted cake can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. Tips: You’ll need a Vitamix blender or food processor to make this carrot cake. This cake gets baked in an 8-inch square pan. I prefer a metal pan, which allows for even browning (and sharp corners!), but you could use a glass dish-just start checking for doneness about 5 minutes early. I always suggest using an inexpensive kitchen scale when baking, not only because it’s more accurate, but also because it’s much easier (no messing with measuring cups!). Be sure to let the cake cool completely before slicing. Since the texture is very moist, the cake can benefit from refrigerating (and it gets even better with time!). I prefer to use dried currants in this cake since they distribute evenly in the batter, but raisins work great as well. You can use honey instead of maple syrup in the cake batter. It’s important that the cream cheese is completely softened before making the frosting, so take it out of the fridge before starting the cake. (To soften the cream cheese more quickly, place it on or near the warm oven.) For a dairy free cake, simply omit the frosting, or serve the cake with a dollop of non-dairy coconut whipped cream instead. Process shot showing beaters mixing the maple cream cheese frosting. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Maple Cream Cheese Frosting This irresistibly light and creamy frosting is made with only 2 ingredients! It’s important that the cream cheese is completely softened when making this frosting, otherwise it could turn lumpy. Also, be sure to add the maple syrup very slowly-start with just a few drops, then add it slowly in a steady drizzle (patience is key!). If you go too fast the frosting could develop lumps (but don’t worry, it will still taste great). Prep Time 5 mins Total Time 5 mins Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanKeyword: easy cream cheese frosting, healthy cream cheese frosting, maple cream cheese frostingServings: 1 8-inch cakeAuthor: Nicki Sizemore Ingredients 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1/4 cup pure maple syrup Instructions Using hand beaters, beat the cream cheese on high until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Start the beaters again and very slowly add the maple syrup in a thin drizzle while beating (if you add it too quickly, it might get lumpy). Continue beating on high until completely smooth, stopping and scraping down the sides as needed. Use the frosting right away

I tried this recipe today. I made some adjustments, so I wanted to share them with those who are interested. I replaced the maple syrup in the cake batter with 1/4 cups coconut sugar (same amount honey would work too). I did not add the applesauce. For the frosting, I used honey and it turned out amazing!

My gf cant eat gluten or sugar without getting sick. Thank you for this recipe ill make some for her Edit: she broke up with me because I said being an illegal citizen isn't a good thing

I made this one today, I don't like raisins so I just skipped that part. The cake turned out so good!! My whole family loved it. I'm allergic to gluten and I don't eat sugar and this is by far the best sugar- and glutenfree cake I've made. Thank you!!!

For an even healthier cake and diabetic friendly, replace the maple syrup with organic stevia as it does not spike your blood sugar like honey or maple syrup would. Make sure to get a trusted stevia brand as many of them ironically add sugar under different names such as “dextrose”. I learnt a lot from Flavcity. Definitely recommend his channel

I have been finding amazing food channels tonight. I can heal my body and spirit while still eating delicious favorites. I love you and your energy, subscribed. Thank you.

This is the first recipe I tried from your channel, and everyone loved the carrot cake. I baked it for my family and friends. Your recipe is easy, elegant, and so delicious. Thank you for providing this content. The cream cheese icing is a winner! I like to bake these into cupcakes, so everyone could enjoy a bit!

I made the carrot cake and it is heavenly: light , full of flavor and has just the right amount of sweetness! I'm so happy to have a great carrot cake recipe that is gluten free, healthy and there were zero glitches with the recipe. Thank you so much!!

No sugar means no refine sugar, especially in baked goods. I love seeing no gluten and no sugar recipes for desserts.

Just made this and it is amazing! My fam loved it

I just tried this recipe... And WOW, SO moist and delicious, you can’t even tell it’s a healthy version! 🤤😱

This is absolutely amazing especially the way the frosting is made I my mind is blown! I just cannot wait to make this it is so incredible it looks so delicious!

Thank you for this amazing recipe ! My partner & I love it and so do my neighbours now too lol ! I’ve made it 3 times now as cup cakes ;) such a good snack.

Made this today for my mum as she doesn't eat gluten or sugar, oh my goodnessssss, it was divine!!! Thank you so much for making mama happy!

First cake I make and my family loved it. Thanks!!

Your family is so lucky to have you cook for them ❤️

I've just made this and it tastes amazing! I used agave syrup instead of maple syrup and it is totally the same, i love this recipe. Love from Italy ❤

This looks phenomenal!! 😍😍 can’t wait to make this

Queen! Thank you so much 😊! I will try this 🔜. It looks so delicious 😋

This is a life-changing recipe. So easy to make and great for those who can't eat sugar,like my husband. Thank you so much. I will definitely try it.

I love carrot cake with nuts and raisins! Looks so yummy!

I love that this recipe can be done with a blender. Brilliant idea!

Perfect no sugar cake, delicious. Adored by my family. This one I will be making again and again.

Yummy !! I love carrot cake , love this healthy version , thank you 🙏 so much 🌹

Just made this cake. Used the gram measurements. It’s delish and will definitely be a new go to cake in our house. It only lasted 1 day...I actually cut the baked cake in half and stacked the layers for a two layer cake (with frosting in the middle, of course). The recipe for the cream cheese maple frosting was enough frosting for a middle layer of frosting and to entirely cover the two layers of cake. Thx so much for sharing this recipe!!!!

Omg this looks so delicious 😍😋 I'm going to make it for thanksgiving 👍🏼

Girl, this is delicious!!! Thank you so much for this recipe! 🎉

Thank you! I made this today and it turned out delicious!

Hello from Portugal, just made this cake and we love it here at home Thanks for sharing 😘

I made this today. It tastes so yummy. I didn't have apple sauce, so I added a little more oil.

I made this cake and it was amazing and delicious! Thank you for sharing! I will make it again and again!

Oh, this looks so good, I will definitely be trying it!! I just began being sugar-free and am trying to cut back on gluten so this is awesome. Thank you so much for sharing this with us! :)

Oh my this look delicious ! I can’t wait to try this! I plan to swap out the eggs with a flax egg as well as the cream cheese with cashews to make it vegan. I hope it still turns out just as good. Thanks for sharing 🙏🏽

I do appreciate the sugar free recipe! I do a lot of those on my channel as well!

Looks awesome. Going to try it today.

This looks sensational. Great video, definitely going to try it out. Thanks so much

I love how all these people think that maple syrup is any different than cane juice. I use it occasionally because if I'm going to have sugar I want it to be tasty but it is sugar and it f's up my inflammation just as bad cane sugar. Honey is also sugar but has some health benefits so you have to weigh them against each other. Also a white piece of bread turns into sugar in our bodies. Fruits are a better source of sugar, and yes they are also sugar, because of all the nutrients and the fiber. So the metabolize a bit differently and at least they provide a bunch of beneficial stuff. So if you are trying to go low sugar then you weigh these out.

Can I substitue with oat flour instead of almond flour?

I love this recipe and the cake is filling and so yummy. Thank you so much! 😊

What a great recipe!! And I particularly love that there is no confectioners sugar in the frosting, brilliant!!

Carrot cake is my favourite !! This looks amazing 😋

Looks great. I would use sugar free maple syrup.

I can’t wait to make this. Running to the supermarket now!!

I love a healthy version of yummy recipes! Can't wait to make this. yum!!

Looks Great!😍 is it okay if i use honey instead of maple syrup?

If you are looking for a good and clean gluten free carrot cake recipe, look no further! This is absolutely the best recipe out there, my family doesn't even eat gluten free, and they loved it! They have requested more 😄 You can't tell it's made with almond flour and no sugar...it tastes so good, you'll just have to try it😋🥕🥕🥕

I just subscribed. Your other recipes looks amazing. I’ll have to try them when I get the chance. ❤️❤️

Oh my gawd. I’m going to try this!! Looks amazing. The reduced sugar recipe is what I’m looking for.

I couldn’t make as the ingredients measurements aren’t mentioned. Pls let me know. The recipient seems to be very interesting.thsnk you

I forgot I had halved the recipe and I saw “3/4 teaspoon of sea salt” and mindlessly put the full amount in... Safe to say it’s horrendous 😂😂😭

Thank you so much for this recipe. It’s amazing one.

THANKS A MILLION! You are amazing!👍🏼👏🏼

Thank you very much for sharing this recipe. Will try it 💖

Hi, love this recipe thank u so much! I just made it for the first time tastes amazing but it’s really moist more like wet “ish” especially in the middle although the tooth pick came out clean!!! It was in oven for 45 min and it’s Too late to put back in oven now as I’ve already cut it into squares! Can we still eat it??! Do you think it’ll firm up once I put it in the fridge?? Thanks

The frosting is the best part 🥲 I made it thank u 💚

That looks awesome, thank you!

Excellent step-by-step carrot cake that looks absolutely delicious..............

Thank you so much for this amazing healthy recipe 👏😍 can't wait to try this 😋 can I use a alternative to applesauce? If so what?

I will definitely try this recipe. Easy and looks yummy with less sugar. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏻😃🎄

Thank you so much it was absolutely wonderful

I tried your recipe and it turned out perfect. Thank you!

I just made de carrot cake and is delicious. Thank you so much for this easy and delicious recipe . Sending love from Cadiz Spain. God Bless.

Omg this looks amazing

Wow this looks amazing. Thank you for this! 🤗❤️

Thank you for this recipe! I cannot wait to try it!!

I just made this recipe and it’s delicious!

Cannot wait to try this!

You are pure joy! Well joy and love are the main ingredient in any recipe. I have gluten intolerance and diabetes. I will try your recipe for my husband, and for me a tiny piece, because of the maple syrup. Gluten can cause me horrible pain. First time in your channel...new subscriber! Hugs from Idaho! 🤗🌷

Thumbs up for the frosting.! Gorgeous food.!

That looks delicious 🤤 I'm going to be making this soon.

Ooh! Looks so goooood. I'm making this. 😊

I love this 😍 I’m going to make this soon!

Hi I just watched this video and it looks amazing! If I wanted to make this in a 13 x 9 dish should I double this recipe?

I tried this today and OMG! absolutely delicious without the guilt. I used monk fruit sweetener instead of maple syrup. Also forgot to put in the baking powder.....still absolutely delicious....so glad I stumble upon your channel. This will be my special treat to myself when ever I feel like carrot cake. Thanks so much for this recipe! 😃

I love your cake! Looks yummy! Wil try to make.

I loved it thanks.

Looks great,need to try

this looks delicious!! Carrot cake is my favorite 😍

Yes I have liver disease and sugar causes bad symptoms but I love desserts so excited to try.

I can’t wait to make this!!❤

I have lupus so watch every ingredient this is amazing thank you I look forward to following your channel

Can’t wait to try it

Fantastic, you mixed all my favorite ingredients...

I tried this recipe today, and I substitute maple syrup for monk fruit and it turned out so good!

I am very excited to try this recipe today. I don't have the applesauce but may try a mashed banana instead and see if it works. I love that it uses healthy alternatives. Thank you so much. I happened to see you on a channel I was passing by and saw a comment from you. Have a great day. Greetings from Denmark.

Looks yummm thank you!!!

stumbled upon this vid and so happy i did because yesterday i purchased a vitamixer lol !

Thanks for sharing this! To add to this, sugar has a lot of different names on ingredients labels. The first item on the list is what there’s the most of in a product! Companies don’t want to have sugar on their ingredient list, so they’ll use other names for it. Cumulatively, these different names add up to a good amount of sugar in the product!

This looks delicious. I am making ot today. 😊Can i use regular flour ?

Great video. Thanks. Just what I was looking for.

looks delicious

love carrot cake and love that i now have a gluten free option

Any suggestions to what else we could use besides cream cheese for the frosting?

Looks divine!!

I made this for family members tonight and they loved it! I used sugar free syrup, and I went by the grams on the carrots - my three 'medium' looked like way too much so I weighed it out and I'm grateful you gave the grams on that. (I made sugar free devil's food cake for ME, and it's cooling, lol) Thank you!

I am going to make this carrot!

👍🏻Thanks for sharing this delicious recipe! I’m always looking for new recipes to try and I’m adding this one to my list! I make cooking videos too so I’m always looking out for new recipes and tips & tricks to use in the kitchen. Plus I like to see how people film their videos and I have to say this is beautifully presented. I think we could learn a lot from each other! Thank you for sharing your talent with us all! 🥦

I just made this for my mom's birthday, it's cooling rn. Report back in a few hours.

I am baking it tomorrow! Wuhuuuuu! Can't wait.

Your right really good . Thank you )))