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The BEST Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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Carrot cake is my all-time FAVORITE kind of cake! And a few weeks ago I realized – I’ve made healthy carrot cake cookies, gluten-free carrot cake muffins, and even carrot cake baked oats but I’ve never made an actual carrot CAKE before. I know, I was shocked too. So I found the time and started recipe testing!

I knew my carrot cake had to be a few things – one bowl, gluten-free, and easy to make. I also really wanted to keep this gluten-free cake recipe to taste as close to the real thing as possible. I wasn’t willing to compromise on taste or texture, so after a few (failed) tests I finally did it! The BEST EVER gluten-free (and can be made dairy-free) carrot cake, made in one bowl, and oh-SO delicious.

gluten free and dairy free carrot cake ingredients on a table.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

  • Moist and Flavorful: This cake boasts a tender crumb, infused with warm spices and the natural sweetness of carrots.​
  • Simple Ingredients: Crafted with everyday items, making it accessible and easy to prepare.​
  • Versatile and Inclusive: Easily adaptable to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.
gluten free carrot cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting cut into on a plate.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and dairy-free alternatives are at room temperature for a smoother batter.​
  • Grating Carrots: Use freshly grated carrots for optimal moisture and flavor.​
  • Frosting Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk in the frosting to achieve your desired thickness.​

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Make it Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy cream cheese, butter, and milk alternatives in both the cake and frosting.​

Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use all dairy-free substitutes.

Make it Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and ensure all other ingredients are free from cross-contamination.​

close up image of gluten-free carrot cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting on a plate.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.​
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw and frost before serving.
4.67 from 3 votes

The BEST Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

This gluten-free cake is simply heavenly – and made in just one bowl! It's bursting with warm spices, shredded carrots, and topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting. This cake is an incredible treat for any occasion!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 9 servings

Equipment

  • 2 large bowls
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 hand or stand mixer

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar, or coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil I used olive oil
  • 1/4 cup milk I used non-dairy almond milk
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cups walnuts chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins optional

For the cinnamon cream cheese frosting:

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (I used non-dairy cream cheese)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened (I used non-dairy butter)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk I used non-dairy almond milk
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar or brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Add in the gluten-free all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk everything together into a smooth batter. Then, add in the shredded carrots and chopped walnuts, and use a spatula to fold those ingredients into the batter.
    gluten-free-carrot-cake-step-02
  • Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven, let it cool inside the baking pan for 15 minutes then carefully remove the cake from the pan by sliding a sharp knife around the outside edge of the cake. Transfer the cake to a wire cooling rack and let it cool completely before frosting.
  • Once the cake is cool, make the cinnamon cream cheese frosting by adding all frosting ingredients to a large bowl and beating with either a hand or stand mixer until fully combined. Start by using just 3 tablespoons of milk in the frosting, then add an additional tablespoon of milk if the frosting is too thick.
  • Spread the frosting into an even layer over the top of the cooled carrot cake. Either serve cake immediately or cover and store in the fridge for up to 1 week!

Notes

Nutrition info may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used. The above nutrition info was calculated to include the cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 312kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 26g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Gluten-Free Cookie Skillet

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overhead image of healthy gluten-free cookie skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Believe it or not, this recipe was my sister’s idea! She actually suggested it over a year ago and at the time, I already had so many cookie recipes on the blog – almond flour chocolate chip cookies, healthy cookie dough bark, and gluten-free edible cookie dough – I sorta just put it on the back burner. Well, fast forward to a few weeks ago when her idea popped back into my head and I was like… ya, a healthy cookie skillet sounds SO good right about now. So I ran to my kitchen and got to work!

I knew my cookie skillet had to be three things – gluten-free, healthier than the rest, and DELICIOUS. And let me tell ya, this recipe checks every one of those boxes! Made with almond flour, coconut oil, and a dash of maple syrup, it’s surprisingly healthy but just as good as any other cookie recipe. It’s also super easy to make in just one bowl with 8 simple ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Cookie Skillet

  • Simple & Delicious: This gooey, chocolatey cookie skillet is made in just one bowl with 8 simple ingredients.
  • Healthier Than Traditional Cookies: Made with almond flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup, this recipe is gluten-free, paleo, and naturally sweetened.
  • Diet-Friendly & Versatile: Easy to customize for nut-free, keto, or vegan diets with simple ingredient swaps.

Recipe Substitutions & Variations

Flour Alternatives:

  • All-Purpose Flour: Swap the almond flour for an equal amount of all-purpose flour if you’re not concerned about gluten-free or paleo.
  • Coconut Flour: Use 1/4 cup coconut flour in place of the almond flour for a lower-carb version.

Nut Butter Swaps:

  • Use peanut butter for a classic flavor or cashew butter for extra creaminess.
  • For nut-free, opt for sunflower seed butter.

Mix-In Ideas:

  • Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for added crunch.
  • Unsweetened shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
  • Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Overhead close up image of healthy cookie skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • Gluten-Free & Paleo: Made with almond flour and coconut oil, this skillet cookie is grain-free and dairy-free.
  • Naturally Sweetened: Maple syrup is used instead of refined sugar, making it a healthier dessert option.
  • Wholesome Fats & Protein: Almond butter and coconut oil provide healthy fats, while the egg adds protein.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Make It Nut-Free: Swap almond butter with sunflower seed butter and use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour.

Make It Keto: Replace maple syrup with monk fruit syrup or another keto-friendly sweetener and use sugar-free chocolate chips.

Make It Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.

Close up image of healthy cookie skillet with a spoon.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or reheat in the microwave before serving.

More Healthy Desserts You’ll Love

overhead image of healthy gluten-free cookie skillet with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
No ratings yet

Healthy Gluten-Free Cookie Skillet

Treat yourself to this healthy cookie skillet made with almond flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup! It’s gluten-free, paleo, and naturally sweetened, making it a wholesome choice for any sweet tooth. Plus, it comes together in one bowl with just 8 simple ingredients!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 8-inch skillet

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened creamy almond butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 egg at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and lightly grease an 8-inch skillet.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the almond butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract.
  • Add in the almond flour and baking soda, then mix until the batter is completely combined.
  • Stir in the chocolate chips, then transfer the batter to your greased skillet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until just set in the center, then remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 28g | Sugar: 11g
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30 Minutes or Less

5 Ingredient Cookie Dough Protein Balls

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cookie dough protein balls on a plate

Why You’ll Love These Protein Balls

Easy, No-Bake Snack: Made with just 5 simple ingredients and ready in minutes – no oven required!

Packed with Protein: Each ball contains 7 grams of protein, making them a perfect post-workout or midday snack.

Healthy & Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup.

Recipe Variations

  • Mix in Superfoods: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp hearts for extra fiber and omega-3s.
  • Swap the Nut Butter: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter.
  • Boost the Chocolate: Dip the balls in melted dark chocolate and let them harden in the fridge for a chocolate-covered protein treat!

The Mixture is Too Dry, What Do I Do?

If the mixture is dry or crumbly, simply:

  • Add 1 tablespoon of water or almond milk at a time until the dough comes together.
  • Alternatively, add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter for more moisture and flavor.
Hand holding a cookie dough protein ball.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use oat flour instead of almond flour.
  • Make it Keto: Use almond flour instead of oats and a sugar-free maple syrup alternative.
  • Make it Grain-Free/Paleo: Skip the oats and use almond flour for a smooth, doughy texture.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.

More Healthy Snack Recipes

If you love these no-bake protein balls, check out my other snack recipes like:

Enjoy these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls as a nutritious snack or dessert! 😋

cookie dough protein balls on a plate
No ratings yet

Cookie Dough Protein Balls

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 5-ingredient cookie dough protein balls – the perfect no-bake snack! Packed with 7 grams of protein per ball, they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them ideal for a healthy energy boost. Ready in minutes, they’re a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your day!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats or almond flour
  • 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined.
  • Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 7g
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Dairy-Free

Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

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overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.

Magic bars were one of my favorite childhood treats! My mom had a few dessert recipes she rotated through – her famous watergate salad was a big one, and 7-layer magic bars were a close second. So when I got hit with this insane craving for magic bars, I looked up a few recipes and was pretty shocked by what I found. Most magic bars are made with tons, and I mean TONS of processed sugar. Though since I’ve basically made it my life’s work to turn our favorite desserts into healthier ones, I knew I had to get working on a healthier magic bar recipe!

This recipe took quite a few tries, but I ultimately perfected it! I used the same almond flour shortbread crust as my healthy pecan pie bars recipe, and riffed off my healthy vegan caramel sauce for a healthier sweetened condensed milk alternative. I then topped these bars with plenty of coconuts, chopped nuts, and of course – chocolate chips! The end result is a bar just as indulgent as the classic magic bars we all know and love, made with healthier ingredients and a fraction of the sugar. I just know you’re gonna LOVE these!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just maple syrup and coconut cream for a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients, one bowl for the crust, and a short bake time.
  • Customizable – Easily make them nut-free, keto-friendly, or extra chocolatey!
a healthy gluten-free magic bar with a bite taken out.

What Makes These Magic Bars Healthier?

Traditional magic bars are loaded with processed sugars and condensed milk, but this healthier version swaps in:

  • Almond flour for a grain-free, nutrient-dense crust.
  • Maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
  • Coconut cream for a dairy-free caramel alternative.
  • Dark chocolate chips with minimal added sugar, or opt for a refined sugar-free chocolate chip like these!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For Extra Firm Bars – Let them chill in the fridge overnight before slicing.
  • For More Chocolate Flavor – Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
  • For a More Caramel-Like Texture – Use cashew butter instead of almond butter.
two healthy gluten-free magic bars stacked on top of each other.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Nut-Free Option – Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter and swap the nuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Keto-Friendly Option – Substitute maple syrup with a keto-friendly syrup and use sugar-free chocolate chips.

Refined Sugar-Free – Stick with pure maple syrup and dark chocolate for a naturally sweet treat!

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.

overhead image of a healthy gluten-free magic bar with chocolate chips on top.
5 from 1 vote

Healthy Gluten-Free Magic Bars

These healthy magic bars are a better-for-you twist on the classic 7-layer bars! Made with a buttery almond flour crust, a naturally sweetened caramel layer, crunchy nuts, coconut, and melty dark chocolate, these bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free. They’re the perfect treat for when you’re craving something sweet but still healthier.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread crust:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

  • 1/2 cup coconut cream (the thick white part at the top of a can of full-fat coconut milk)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread crust ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • Remove the crust from the oven to cool, and while it cools make the caramel by adding the coconut cream, maple syrup, and almond butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together and cool for 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the caramel has melted together and slightly thickened.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly, then mix the chopped walnuts or pecans and shredded coconut into the caramel.
  • Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer over the crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer (if you’d like, you can then sprinkle an additional 1-2 tablespoons of shredded coconut and chopped walnuts or pecans over the chocolate chips to make the bars a little prettier), then bake the bars for an additional 20 minutes.
  • Remove the bars from the oven and leave them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the fridge to completely set for at least one hour. Remove the bars from the fridge, cut into square, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 325kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 6.4g | Fat: 27g | Sugar: 13g
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30 Minutes or Less

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

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Homemade granola being scooped off a baking sheet with a measuring scoop.

This homemade granola recipe has been a staple in my home for over 3 years! In fact, it’s one of the first recipes I ever developed as a food blogger, along with my almond flour brownies and gluten-free blueberry muffins. I also can’t stress enough how incredibly EASY this recipe is to make. I was on TikTok last week and I watched a fellow food blogger make a homemade granola with like 12 ingredients and I was like… NO no, no need for that. So I finally carved out the time to share this 5-ingredient granola recipe with you!

I should also note that this is one of those recipes that is super easy to customize. Need to make it nut-free? Replace the chopped nuts with additional oats and unsalted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds (also, check out the nut-free section on my blog for more nut-free recipes!). Craving something more chocolate-y? Toss in some dark chocolate chunks once the granola has cooled. Or, if you need a sugar-free granola recipe, replace the maple syrup with your favorite sugar-free liquid sweetener – it’s that simple!

Happy homemade granola making, friends! And if you give this recipe a try, I’d really love it if you left a comment and a 5 STAR review on this post. Your support means the world to me!

Homemade granola on a baking sheet with a serving spoon.

What You’ll Need to Make this Homemade Granola Recipe

Peanut Butter: For a personalized touch, opt for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice. To keep it health-conscious, go for a natural, unsweetened variety.

Melted Coconut Oil: Customize your granola with melted butter, olive oil, or any vegetable oil as alternatives to coconut oil.

Maple Syrup or Honey: Tailor the sweetness to your liking by choosing between agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or a sugar-free syrup for a low-sugar twist. The decision between maple syrup and honey is entirely based on your flavor preference.

Rolled Oats: For a gluten-free recipe, ensure the oats you buy are entirely gluten-free, like these ones from Bob’s Red Mill! Opt for old-fashioned oats to achieve a hearty and satisfying texture in your granola.

Chopped Unsalted Nuts: Make your granola uniquely yours by selecting nuts that align with your taste or dietary preferences. I used almonds and cashews in my granola, but really any unsalted nuts will do! For a nut-free alternative, consider using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Homemade granola served with yogurt and fresh raspberries in a bowl.

Is this Homemade Granola Recipe Healthy?

Yes, this homemade granola recipe is relatively healthy. It incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like oats, nuts, and coconut oil, providing a good balance of essential fats, fiber, and protein. Additionally, the recipe allows for customization, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences and ensuring a wholesome breakfast or snack!

Homemade granola pouring out of a glass jar.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Mix It Up: Experiment with different nut and seed combinations to tailor the granola to your taste buds.
  • Watch Closely: Keep a close eye on the granola during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
  • More Clusters: For delightfully big granola chunks, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Homemade Granola Recipe

Elevate your breakfast with this super easy homemade granola recipe! It comes together with just 5-ingredients, one bowl, and in under 30 minutes. This healthy granola recipe is sweetened with maple syrup, and a delicious addition to yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, and/or cashews)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup or honey.
  • Add in the rolled oats and chopped nuts, then mix to combine.
  • Transfer the granola mixture to your prepared baking sheet and spread the granola into an even layer across the baking sheet.
  • Bake the granola for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and use a spatula to flip and toss the granola. Put it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the granola in the turned-off oven for 30 minutes.
  • Remove granola from the oven and let it cool completely before serving or storing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Sugar: 4g
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