Nut Free Carrot Cake Recipe

This Nut Free Carrot Cake Recipe is the perfect choice. Made with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and simple pantry ingredients, this cake delivers all the classic carrot cake flavor without any nuts.

Many traditional carrot cake recipes include walnuts or pecans, which can be a concern for those with nut allergies. This version skips the nuts entirely while maintaining the soft texture, rich flavor, and delicious aroma that make carrot cake a favorite around the world.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Servings: 10 people

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
¾ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups finely grated carrots

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 ounces cream cheese softened
¼ cup unsalted butter softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
9-inch round cake pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined. This helps distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. The mixture should look slightly thick and glossy.

Step 4: Combine and Add Carrots

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots gently, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. Beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy, then spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake before slicing and serving.

Video

Notes

Nut Free Carrot Cake is a classic carrot cake made without walnuts, pecans, or other tree nuts. Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, while cinnamon and other spices create a warm, comforting flavor. The result is a tender cake that’s suitable for those avoiding nuts while still tasting every bit as delicious as the traditional version.