gf carrot cake recipe
- The Best gf carrot cake recipe
- Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
The Best gf carrot cake recipe
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how it checks all the boxes: it’s naturally gluten-free, uses wholesome ingredients like almond flour and coconut oil, and sneaks in plenty of carrots for extra fiber and vitamins. The cream cheese frosting is the classic finish, but it’s light enough that the cake itself still shines. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge for days, so I can bake it ahead of time and have a quick snack or dessert ready whenever we need it. Whether you’re avoiding gluten or just looking for a healthier take on carrot cake, this one delivers every time.
Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A moist and flavorful gluten-free carrot cake packed with grated carrots, warm spices, and a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for dessert or a sweet brunch treat.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¾ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 4 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or shredded coconut (optional)
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans with oil or line with parchment paper. -
2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside. -
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, applesauce, and oil. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. -
4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix. -
5
Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and raisins (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. -
6
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
7
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting. -
8
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using). Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. -
9
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. For a layered cake, spread frosting between layers and on top. -
10
Slice and serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
🔧Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Grater
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Cooling rack
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
1. What makes this carrot cake gluten-free?
This carrot cake is gluten-free because it uses a blend of gluten-free flours (such as almond flour, rice flour, or a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix) instead of traditional wheat flour. Xanthan gum is often added to mimic the binding properties of gluten, ensuring the cake holds together without compromising texture.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free as well?
Yes! You can easily make this carrot cake dairy-free by substituting the butter with coconut oil, vegan butter, or a neutral oil like avocado oil. For the cream cheese frosting, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream or a plant-based butter alternative. The cake will still be rich and moist.
3. How do I prevent my gluten-free carrot cake from being dry?
Gluten-free baked goods can dry out faster, so here’s how to keep your cake moist:
– Don’t overbake—check for doneness 5–10 minutes before the recipe’s suggested time.
– Add an extra egg or a bit of applesauce/yogurt to the batter for moisture.
– Store the cake in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain humidity.
4. Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Classic carrot cake often includes chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins. Fold in ½ to ¾ cup of your choice (toasted nuts work best) along with the grated carrots. If using raisins, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes first to plump them up.
5. How long does gluten-free carrot cake last, and how should I store it?
– Room temperature: Keeps for 2–3 days in an airtight container (frosting may soften).
– Fridge: Up to 5 days (bring to room temperature before serving for best texture).
– Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
