Family's Go-To Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

This moist and flavorful carrot cake has become a beloved favorite in our family, perfect for those who need a gluten-free treat. It’s easy to make and packed with warm spices that everyone will enjoy.

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TIME1 hr

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

cooking spray 1 ½ cups white sugar ½ cup canola oil ½ cup applesauce 3 large eggs 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose baking flour (such as Cup4Cup™) 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 pound carrots, peeled and shredded

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a big bowl, combine the sugar, oil, applesauce, and eggs, mixing until everything’s smooth and well blended. Next, add in the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, vanilla, and nutmeg, stirring until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. Fold in the shredded carrots, making sure they’re evenly mixed throughout the batter. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool before slicing, and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best texture and sweetness.
- Make sure to measure gluten-free flour accurately to maintain the right consistency.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender and light.

Why you’ll love it

This cake is moist, flavorful, and perfect for those avoiding gluten. It combines the natural sweetness of carrots with warm spices for a comforting treat that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Serving ideas

Serve this cake with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

Storage & leftovers

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated for up to a week or freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.