Carrot cake is a joy that many think they have to give up when transitioning to a paleo lifestyle. However, that’s far from the truth! With a few tweaks to the traditional recipe, you can enjoy a moist, flavorful carrot cake that aligns with paleo dietary guidelines. Today, we’re going to dive into making a delicious, paleo-friendly carrot cake with a creamy cashew frosting that will impress even the most skeptical of eaters.
Why Go Paleo?
The paleo diet focuses on consuming foods that were presumably available to our Paleolithic ancestors. This means lots of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and lean meats, while avoiding processed foods, grains, and dairy. The result? Many have found it to lead to better digestive health, more energy, and a natural way to maintain a healthy weight.
But let’s get to the sweet part, shall we?
Ingredients for the Carrot Cake:
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2 cups almond flour: A staple in gluten-free and paleo baking, almond flour provides a moist texture and is rich in nutrients.
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1/2 cup coconut flour: This helps absorb moisture and adds a lovely subtle flavor.
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1 teaspoon baking powder: Look for a grain-free version to keep it paleo.
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1/4 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt: A healthier alternative to processed salt.
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2 teaspoons cinnamon: For that classic carrot cake warmth.
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1 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds depth to the cake’s flavor.
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4 eggs: Eggs will bind the ingredients together.
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1/2 cup coconut oil, melted: A healthy fat that’s solid at room temperature, but is easily melted for baking.
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1/2 cup maple syrup: A natural sweetener that brings a beautiful, rich sweetness.
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2 cups grated carrots: The star of the show, adding moisture and sweetness.
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1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds texture and flavor.
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For a little crunch.
Ingredients for the Cashew Frosting:
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2 cups raw cashews, soaked overnight or at least 4 hours: Soaking makes them soft and blendable.
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1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Helps solidify the frosting.
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1/4 cup maple syrup: For natural sweetness.
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
Making the Carrot Cake:
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Prep Your Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the melted coconut oil and maple syrup until everything is well combined.
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Merge: Pour your wet mixture into your dry mixture and stir until just combined. Add the grated carrots, shredded coconut, and optional walnuts, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.
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Bake: Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Crafting the Cashew Frosting:
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Blend: Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them under cold water. In a high-powered blender, combine the cashews, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit of water, one tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
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Chill: Once blended, transfer the frosting to the refrigerator for about an hour to firm up.
Assembling the Cake:
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Frost: When your cake has cooled, and your frosting has thickened, spread the cashew frosting over the cake with a spatula. If the middle of your cake has risen significantly, you might want to level it with a knife before frosting.
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Decorate (Optional): For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts, grated carrots, or paleo-friendly decorative items on top.
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Enjoy! Slice your masterpiece and enjoy the combination of a moist, flavorful cake with a creamy, decadent frosting that feels indulgent but stays true to your paleo principles.
This paleo-friendly carrot cake with cashew frosting is proof that you don’t have to abandon your dietary preferences to enjoy a slice of cake. It’s perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or when you simply need a sweet treat. So, tie on your apron, and let’s bake a cake that everyone can feel good about enjoying!
