Fragrant and Healthy Carrot Cake

Carrot cake is a classic dessert that is beloved for its moist, flavorful crumb and rich, creamy frosting. But what if I told you that you could enjoy a delicious, indulgent slice of carrot cake that is also packed with nutritious ingredients and fragrant spices? Fragrant and healthy carrot cake is a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, offering all the same comforting flavors and textures while also providing a dose of wholesome goodness.

Fragrant and Healthy Carrot Cake
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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

1 hr 10 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 25 mins

Servings:

9

Yield:

1 to 9 - inch bundt cake

Ingredients

¾ cup whole wheat flour
¾ cup cake flour
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon carob powder (Optional)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ tablespoons molasses
¼ cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 orange, juiced and zested
1 ½ teaspoons grated lemon zest
½ cup raisins
5 dried figs, chopped
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
2 cups grated carrots
¼ cup chopped pecans

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9 inch Bundt pan.

Step 2

In a large bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour, cake flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, carob, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the molasses, oil, eggs and orange juice. Mix until the dry ingredients are moistened, then stir in the orange zest, lemon zest, raisins, figs, poppy seeds, carrots and pecans until evenly distributed. Pour into the prepared pan.

Step 3

Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a knife inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool for 30 minutes before removing from the pan.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

315

Calories

11g

Fat

53g

Carbs

6g

Protein

Complement

This healthier version of carrot cake is made with whole wheat flour, reducing the refined carbohydrates and increasing the fiber content. Freshly grated carrots add natural sweetness and a boost of vitamin A, while a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger infuse the cake with warm, aromatic flavors. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting made with reduced-fat cream cheese and a hint of vanilla, this fragrant and healthy carrot cake is a guilt-free treat that satisfies both the sweet tooth and the desire for a nutritious, satisfying dessert.