Moist Gluten Free Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
I’ve been baking this gluten free carrot cake for years, and it’s the recipe I turn to whenever I need something comforting, reliable, and crowd-pleasing. I love how it comes together with simple ingredients but still feels special enough for birthdays or holidays.
The warm spices, freshly grated carrots, and tender crumb make it hard to believe it’s gluten free. This is the kind of cake I make when I want everyone at the table to enjoy dessert without worrying about dietary restrictions.
I’ve tested it more times than I can count, tweaking the balance of moisture and spice until it felt just right. Whether I’m baking for family or bringing it to a gathering, this gluten free carrot cake always disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and no fancy equipment, perfect for beginner bakers.
- Moist and Flavorful: Warm spices and fresh carrots keep every bite soft and rich.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything is easy to find at a regular grocery store.
- Naturally Versatile: Works well as a layer cake, sheet cake, or even cupcakes.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or casual weekend baking.
Gluten Free Carrot Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven and prepare your baking pan.
- Whisk together dry ingredients in a bowl.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, sugars, oil, and vanilla.
- Stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots and nuts if using.
- Pour batter into pan and smooth the top.
- Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely, then frost and serve.
Notes
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can bake the cake layers ahead and freeze them unfrosted. For extra flavor, add a pinch of ginger or cloves to the batter.
Pro Tips
- Grate the carrots finely so they blend smoothly into the batter
- Use room-temperature eggs for a better texture
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting
- Line your pan with parchment for easy removal
- Check doneness with a toothpick, not the timer
- Measure gluten free flour carefully for best results
- Add nuts only if you like extra texture
FAQs
Can I make this cake dairy free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.
What gluten free flour works best?
A 1:1 gluten free baking flour with xanthan gum works well.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake a day ahead and frost before serving.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Store it covered and avoid overbaking.
Can I freeze gluten free carrot cake?
Yes, freeze unfrosted layers tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
