There’s something about the first cool days of fall that makes me want to turn on the oven and fill the kitchen with the smell of warm spices. This gluten-free carrot cake loaf is my answer to that craving. It’s soft, moist, and gently sweet, with the cozy flavor of pumpkin pie spice and little flecks of carrot throughout. It comes together in one bowl with everyday ingredients. No butter is used here. Instead, Greek yogurt gives a boost of protein while keeping the loaf extra moist. It’s perfect with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. Nobody will even guess it’s gluten-free.
Ingredients for Carrot Cake Loaf:
Eggs– Eggs give the loaf its structure, and that matters even more in gluten-free baking, where there’s no gluten network to hold things together. They also help the batter combine more easily, so the oil and yogurt blend smoothly.
Sugar– A bit of sugar adds just a touch of sweetness to the loaf. Whisking it with the eggs first helps it dissolve and gives the loaf a nicer texture.
Plain Greek Yogurt– Yogurt adds moisture, a slight tang that balances the sweetness, and a good dose of protein. Be sure to choose plain, unsweetened yogurt so you don´t have any strange flavor mixes and you keep the sugar content of the loaf lower.
Whole Cow’s Milk– Milk thins the batter, which is important because gluten-free flours tend to make batters a bit more thick. Using low-fat or a non-dairy milk will still work, but whole milk gives the softest result.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil– Olive oil is a wonderful fit for spiced cakes and breads. It’s rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and keeps the loaf moist for days.
All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour– This is the backbone of the loaf. A little tip: let the batter rest for 5 to 10 minutes before baking so the flour can fully hydrate, which improves the texture and reduces any grittiness. Using regular all-purpose flour is a another option for this recipe and will work just as well.
Baking Powder– This is what gives the loaf its lift. Gluten-free batters are heavier, so fresh baking powder is key.
Pumpkin Pie Spice– This blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves is what makes the loaf taste like fall. No pumpkin pie spice on hand? Mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. Spices lose their punch over time, so if your jar has been in the pantry for years, it’s worth replacing.
Sea Salt– Just a tiny pinch, but it matters. Salt sharpens flavors and keeps the sweetness from tasting flat. In a loaf this simple, you’d notice it if it were missing.
Carrot– Carrot adds natural sweetness, moisture, and gorgeous little orange flecks, plus a boost of beta-carotene and fiber. Shred it with a cheese grater and fold it in gently at the end to avoid overmixing the batter.
Ingredients:
- 2 Egg
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1/3 cup Cow’s Milk, Whole
- 3 tbsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 cups All Purpose Gluten-Free Flour
- 1 tbsp Baking Powder
- 2 tsps Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1/8 tsp Sea Salt
- 1 Carrot (medium, shredded)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175ºC). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and cane sugar until smooth. Add the yogurt, milk, and oil. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, and mix until combined. Fold in the shredded carrot.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and smooth it out into an even layer. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the top is firm.
- Let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into even pieces. Enjoy!
Notes:
- Leftovers- Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to three days. Refrigerate for up to one week. Freeze for up to two months.
- Serving Size- A standard 9 x 5-inch (23 x 13 cm) loaf pan was used to make 10 servings. One serving is one slice.
- No Cane Sugar- Use coconut sugar instead.
- No Pumpkin Pie Spice- Use a combination of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg instead.
Health Insights:
- Nutrients- The recipe incorporates a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients, such as carrots and Greek yogurt, which contribute essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being.
- Heart Health- The use of extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health, which may help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Digestive Health- With the inclusion of fiber from gluten-free flour and carrots, this recipe may promote digestive health by supporting regular bowel movements and fostering a healthy gut environment.
* Makes 10 servings
