Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Slice

The magic of this gluten-free carrot cake lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cake itself is moist, thanks to the carrots and pineapple, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm spice. The addition of crunchy walnuts gives every bite a satisfying contrast. Topped with a silky, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is the perfect indulgence, whether you’re gluten-free or not.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (make sure it includes xanthan gum)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, beat the vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until smooth.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
2. If you’re using walnuts or pecans, fold them in gently.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.