Carrot cake has always held a special place in my heart, not just for its moist texture and delightful sweetness, but for the memories it evokes of family gatherings and celebrations. One memorable afternoon, I decided to surprise my friends with a healthier version of this classic dessert, incorporating nutrient-dense superfoods. The result was a delicious, guilt-free treat that became the star of the show!
### Ingredients
– 2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or any natural sweetener)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup chia seeds (for added omega-3s)
### Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, sea salt, and chia seeds. Stir until well mixed.
In another bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts or pecans if using. The carrots will add moisture and sweetness, while the nuts provide a satisfying crunch.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For a deliciously creamy topping, consider making a simple yogurt frosting by mixing Greek yogurt with a bit of honey and vanilla extract. Spread this over the cooled cake for an added layer of sweetness and nutrition.
Serve slices of your nutritious carrot cake to family and friends, and watch as they delight in the flavors and textures. This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also nourishes your body, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. Enjoy the smiles and compliments that come your way!