I designed my healthy carrot cake recipe when I opened The Healthy Chef Café in Avalon Beach in Sydney, Australia. It was a hangout for moms, kids, yogis, supermodels and pro surfers — a place where a variety of people could get nourished and feel great.
This cake has over one pound of fresh grated carrot, so it’s packed with goodness and fiber. The large amount of carrots in this recipe also helps to keep the cake moist, which is important due to the longer baking time.
When making gluten-free cakes, I find ground almonds make a great replacement for the usual white refined flours that you’ll find in most cakes. Almonds boost protein in the recipe and they’re packed with vitamin E. I’ve also used extra virgin olive oil in order to give this cake a luxurious flavor. In the winter, I like to add a handful or two of plump raisins, which adds a little sweetness and marries the carrot and spices perfectly. You can also use fresh blueberries instead of raisins when they’re in season.
Spread the cake generously with a thick, strained Greek style yogurt called labna. It’s easy to make on your own, and is a wonderful topping to both sweet and savory dishes.
WHAT’S GREAT ABOUT IT
Carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene, which can convert to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for many functions including immune system health and thyroid health.
INGREDIENTS
CARROT CAKE
MAPLE VANILLA FROSTING (see notes)
DIRECTIONS
CARROT CAKE
NOTES + INSPIRATION: For larger cakes, double this recipe and divide between 4 x 20 cm (8 inch) cake tins – enough to get four even layers. Sandwich cakes together with frosting and enjoy.
Ricotta can be used in place of the labna and cream cheese. Just combine the same amount of ricotta with half the amount of maple syrup and vanilla. Whisk or blend using a food processor until smooth and creamy, adding a splash of water if needed then use as directed.
For a dairy free topping, dollop the carrot cake with coconut yoghurt or whipped coconut cream.
To make your own Labna:
Teresa Cutter, founder of The Healthy Chef, is an author, nutritionist and classically trained chef. You can find more of Cutter’s tips and recipes on her website, app, eBooks and Instagram.
“My main goal at The Healthy Chef is to get people cooking and eating healthier. Eat natural foods, focus on fresh fruits and vegetables and just keep it simple.” — Teresa Cutter
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