Healthy Carrot Cake Without Traditional Baking Ingredients: A Nutritious Delight

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 230g (8.1 ounces) carrots, finely grated
• 60g (2 ounces) plums
• 80g (2.8 ounces) oat flakes
• 60g (2.1 ounces) almonds
• 2 tablespoons flaxseeds + 90ml (3.4 ounces) water
• 100ml (3.4 ounces) liquid (milk/water/orange juice)
• 2 teaspoons stevia
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Detailed Instructions

Preparation Phase

1. Start by preheating your oven to 170°C (338°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the edges are well covered.

Creating the Flax Egg

1. Combine 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds with 90ml warm water.
2. Whisk thoroughly and let stand for 10 minutes until thickened.
3. The mixture should have an egg-like consistency.

Preparing the Fruit Base

1. Place plums in a heat-safe bowl.
2. Pour boiling water over them.
3. Let soak for 10 minutes until softened.
4. Drain thoroughly and chop finely.

Processing the Dry Ingredients

1. Finely grate the carrots using the small holes of a box grater.
2. Process almonds in a food processor until finely ground but not paste-like.
3. Combine oat flakes, ground almonds, baking powder, salt, stevia, and cinnamon in a large bowl.

Mixing the Batter

1. Add the grated carrots to the dry ingredients.
2. Fold in the chopped plums.
3. Stir in the thickened flaxseed mixture.
4. Gradually add your chosen liquid, stirring until you achieve a spreadable consistency.

Baking Process

1. Spread the batter evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Aim for approximately 0.5cm thickness throughout.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
4. Test doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter to maintain a light texture
• Pat grated carrots with paper towels to remove excess moisture
• Toast oats briefly before using for enhanced flavor
• Use orange juice as your liquid for natural sweetness
• Consider adding nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth

Storage Instructions

• Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months
• Wrap individual slices in parchment paper before freezing

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 12):

• Calories: 125
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Healthy Fats: 6g
• Sugar: 5g (all from natural sources)
• Iron: 8% DV
• Vitamin A: 70% DV

Variations

• Swap almonds for walnuts or pecans
• Add raisins or chopped dates for extra sweetness
• Include shredded coconut for tropical flavor
• Experiment with different spice combinations

This healthy carrot cake proves that nutritious desserts can be delicious and satisfying. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a healthy dessert option, this cake provides sustained energy without the sugar crash. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking for healthier alternatives, this recipe delivers both nutrition and taste in every bite.

Remember, the key to success with this recipe is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and following the preparation steps carefully. The result will be a moist, flavorful cake that you can enjoy without any guilt!