Healthy Gluten Free Carrot Cake

It’s my party and I’ll cry if I want to! Or make myself a healthy carrot cake instead of my usual sugar filled version for my birthday. I’ve been on a detox over the past month or so and eating really well so I wanted to make a birthday cake that would fit in with my current food routine. To be honest, my diet hasn’t changed that much from what it normally is, I have simply reduced any processed sugars and foods, alcohol and limited my caffeine intake. That’s about it, but it’s made a big difference in my energy levels, and since November and December are the busiest months of the year, I thought I’d continue, as I’m going to need all the energy I can get leading up to Christmas! 

I love carrot cake, and decided that was the cake to try and make even healthier since it already included vegetables. All I did was swap out the flour and used and maple syrup to give it sweetness instead of sugar. It worked out pretty well but this cake is a lot denser - almost like bread - than traditional carrot cake, so only those who already have a pretty healthy diet will probably enjoy this.

My sister and I really love this cake, but mum was not a huge fan. She took a few spoonfuls and then quickly put it aside. So I won’t be offended at all if this doesn’t sit well with everyone, because I know it won’t. At first I wasn’t sure how to go about making the icing, but went with medjool dates (one of my favourite things in the world) to give it sweetness. It’s quite nice and actually quite sweet. At least I found it so.This cake is great because it’s a meal and dessert in one. It’s very filling and satisfying and full of good stuff. 

I couldn’t help but add a bit of whimsy so I used sugared rose petals to decorate the top of the cake. They make it look really beautiful, but yes, they are covered in highly processed sugar. But you can simply omit these and decorate with fresh fruit or nuts if you prefer. 

If you think you might enjoy this cake I highly recommend you give it a try. And if not, whip up a traditional version and enjoy that instead. 

Love and light!

Susanna xo