Craving a moist and flavorful carrot cake but want to keep it healthy? This Juicy Carrot Cake is the answer! Made without flour, sugar, butter, or eggs, this cake relies on the natural sweetness of bananas and dried fruits. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients like carrots, oats, and seeds, making it a perfect guilt-free dessert or snack. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and delightful flavors of this easy-to-make, healthy carrot cake.
Ingredients
- 160g banana (about 1 large banana), mashed
- 110g carrots, finely grated
- 200g instant rolled oats
- 150g dried fruits (such as raisins, dates, or apricots), chopped
- 2 tablespoons shelled sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 120ml milk (or water or orange juice for a different flavor)
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- Lemon zest (or spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom) to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the Carrot and Banana Mixture: In a large bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Add the finely grated carrots and mix well.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the instant rolled oats, chopped dried fruits, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and lemon zest or spices to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Incorporate Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the milk (or water or orange juice) and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is consistent.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
More Information
This Juicy Carrot Cake is not only a healthier alternative to traditional carrot cake but also incredibly versatile. Here’s how you can customize and enjoy this delightful treat.
Customizing the Recipe:
- Different Dried Fruits: Use a mix of dried fruits such as cranberries, figs, or cherries to vary the flavor and texture.
- Nutty Additions: Add chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste. A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom adds warmth, while a hint of ginger can give a subtle zing.
- Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter cake, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a satisfying breakfast.
- Snack: Pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of almond butter for a protein-packed snack.
- Dessert: Serve with a scoop of banana nice cream or a drizzle of homemade fruit compote for a healthy dessert.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cake can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat before serving.
- Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm it in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from carrots, oats, and seeds, this cake is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Naturally Sweetened: The natural sweetness from bananas and dried fruits eliminates the need for added sugar.
- Easy and Quick: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this cake is easy to make and perfect for busy lifestyles.
- Diet-Friendly: Suitable for various dietary needs, including vegan (if using plant-based milk), dairy-free, and egg-free diets.
Nutritional Benefits
- Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, potassium, and vitamins B6 and C, which support heart health and energy production.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants, promoting eye health and boosting immunity.
- Oats: High in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps reduce cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar.
- Dried Fruits: Offer concentrated sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to digestive health and providing natural energy.
- Seeds: Sunflower and sesame seeds add healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
Conclusion
This Juicy Carrot Cake is a perfect example of how healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying. With its natural sweetness, moist texture, and wholesome ingredients, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your healthy recipe collection. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, you can feel good about indulging in this nutritious treat. Give it a try and delight in the guilt-free goodness of this flavorful carrot cake!