Are you craving a delicious treat but want something healthier? Look no further than this amazing recipe for a juicy carrot cake! Packed with wholesome ingredients and free from flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, this cake is a guilt-free delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
Introduction
Carrot cake is a beloved classic, but traditional recipes can be laden with unhealthy ingredients. However, this flourless, sugarless, butter-less, and eggless version puts a nutritious spin on the beloved dessert without compromising on taste. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe.
Ingredients
- 7 oz Blended Instant Oat Flakes
- 3.9 oz Carrots
- 5.6 oz Banana
- 5.3 oz Dried Fruit (cut into pieces)
- 4 fl oz Milk
- 2 tbsp Shelled Sunflower Seeds
- 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 Grated Lemon Zest
- 0.5 tsp Baking Powder
- 0.5 tsp Baking Soda
- Enough Icing Sugar
Preparation
- Toasting Seeds: Begin by toasting sesame and sunflower seeds in a non-stick pan over low heat for 3-4 minutes. Once toasted, set them aside.
- Preparing Batter: Grate carrots into a bowl and mash the banana. Mix in grated lemon zest, lemon juice with baking soda, blended oat flakes (turned into flour), and baking powder. Add dried fruit, toasted seeds, and milk. Mix until you achieve a grainy yet soft consistency.
- Baking: Line a 20×20 centimeter square mold with parchment paper. Spread the batter evenly into the mold. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 40-45 minutes.
- Serving: Once baked, remove the cake from the mold, cool in the fridge, dust with icing sugar, and serve.
Tips for Substitutions
- Vegan Option: Replace milk with vegan milk, orange juice, or water for a vegan-friendly version.
- Seed Variations: Experiment with different seeds like pumpkin seeds or flaxseeds for added texture and flavor.
Baking and Serving Suggestions
- Customize Toppings: Get creative with toppings like a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
- Pairing: Enjoy this carrot cake with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of almond milk.
Why Choose Flourless, Sugarless, Butterless, Eggless?
Traditional carrot cakes often contain refined flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, which can contribute to health concerns like weight gain and blood sugar spikes. This alternative recipe offers a nutritious option without sacrificing taste or texture.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene and fiber, carrots promote eye health and aid digestion.
- Bananas: Packed with potassium and vitamins, bananas support heart health and provide a natural source of energy.
- Oats: High in fiber and antioxidants, oats help lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels.
- Dried Fruit: Provides natural sweetness and a dose of vitamins and minerals for overall health.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute fresh fruit for dried fruit, but keep in mind that fresh fruit may add more moisture to the batter.
2. How long will this carrot cake stay fresh? When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this carrot cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe? Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of icing sugar to suit your taste preferences or omit it altogether.
5. Are there any nuts I can add to this recipe? Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delightful addition, providing extra crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Indulge in the goodness of a moist and flavorful carrot cake without worrying about unhealthy ingredients. This flourless, sugarless, butterless, and eggless recipe offers a wholesome twist on a classic dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try it out for your next gathering or as a delightful treat for yourself!
