The Kenneally Family Favorite Dessert - Carrot Cake

If you’re on the hunt for a mouthwatering gluten-free dessert, this gluten-free carrot cake is about to become your new favorite. Packed with warm spices, natural sweetness, and topped with a creamy, smooth frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or not, this carrot cake will win over everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

This isn’t just any carrot cake—this one is made with wholesome ingredients like organic coconut sugar, coconut oil, and gluten-free flour, so you can enjoy it without the worry. It's rich in flavor, perfectly moist, and topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting. Plus, it's packed with grated carrots, chopped pecans, and a little white chocolate for a hint of sweetness in every bite!

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose gluten-free flour (I recommend Namaste or Cup4Cup)
• 3 cups peeled and grated carrots (fresh is best!)
• 1 ½ cups organic coconut sugar (a natural sweetener!)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for that cozy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup coconut oil, melted
• ½ cup raw milk
• ½ cup chopped pecans (plus more for decorating)
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (Lily’s brand is my personal favorite)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (adds a little tang)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 cups organic powdered sugar (for a smooth finish)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (also at room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon organic vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (to balance out the sweetness)

How to Make Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal later.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is evenly mixed.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, melted coconut oil, raw milk, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in the grated carrots, chopped pecans, and white chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens!

4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.

5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.

6. Cool Down: Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here, so try not to rush!

7. Make the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and lump-free.

8. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on your cake stand or serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the entire cake. Top with extra chopped pecans for that beautiful, finished touch.

9. Serve & Enjoy: Now it’s time to slice and enjoy this amazing gluten-free carrot cake! It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your family.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth, creamy frosting, make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before you start mixing.
• Grate the Carrots: Fresh, grated carrots give the best texture. Don't use pre-grated, as they can be too dry.
• Store Leftovers: If you have any leftover cake (doubtful, right?), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake will stay fresh, and the frosting will remain creamy.

This gluten-free carrot cake is a great alternative to traditional cakes but doesn't skimp on flavor or texture. It’s light, moist, and filled with the perfect balance of spices and sweetness. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy layer that pairs wonderfully with the carrot cake.

Whether you’re gluten-free by choice or necessity, this recipe will be a hit at any gathering. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, free of gluten, and full of flavor—what’s not to love?