If you love the classic taste of soft, spiced carrot cake but need to avoid gluten, this gluten free carrot cake recipe is the perfect solution. This cake is moist, flavorful, and made with simple, halal ingredients that are easy to find. It is a wonderful dessert for anyone with gluten sensitivities or those looking for a healthier cake option. This recipe is beginner-friendly and guarantees a delicious, soft cake every time.
What Is a Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe?

A gluten free carrot cake recipe is a cake made without using regular wheat flour. “Gluten-free” means the recipe uses flours like rice flour, potato starch, or cornstarch instead of traditional wheat, barley, or rye. These special flours, often combined with a little xanthan gum, help give the cake structure and softness, just like a regular cake. Our halal carrot cake recipe ensures that the cake is both safe for those who avoid gluten and meets strict dietary standards.
Ingredients for the Best Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe
All ingredients used are halal and safe. Remember to use certified gluten-free flour.

Dry Ingredients
| Component | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | All-purpose gluten-free flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Xanthan gum (if needed) | 3/4 teaspoon | |
| Baking powder & baking soda | 1 1/4 tsp & 1 tsp | |
| Cinnamon & Nutmeg | 2 tsp & 1/4 tsp | |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Wet Ingredients and Filling
| Component | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Wet Ingredients | White sugar & Brown sugar | 1 1/4 cup & 3/4 cup |
| Large eggs | 4 | |
| Applesauce (unsweetened) | 1/3 cup | |
| Oil (canola or vegetable) | 2/3 cup | |
| Melted unsalted butter | 1/2 cup | |
| Main Filling | Finely shredded carrots | 3 cups |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe
Making this gluten free carrot cake recipe is easier than you think!
1. Prepare the Oven and Dry Mix
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In one bowl, whisk all the dry ingredients together (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt).
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until they are smooth. Add the white sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, oil, and melted butter. Mix until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
3. Combine and Bake
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until the batter is just combined—do not overmix it. Gently fold in the finely shredded carrots. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool and Frost
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cakes are completely cool, they are ready for frosting (usually a simple cream cheese frosting).
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Carrot Cake

This gluten free carrot cake recipe is loved by families because of its incredibly soft, fluffy, and moist texture. The natural sweetness from the carrots and applesauce means you don’t need excessive sugar. It is 100% free of gluten and alcohol, making it a wonderful halal carrot cake recipe that is safe and enjoyable for everyone. It is easy enough for beginner bakers to make at home with basic kitchen tools.
Tips for the Best Results
- Grate Freshly: Always use freshly grated carrots instead of pre-shredded ones from the store. Fresh carrots contain more moisture, which makes the cake softer.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can make the cake tough. Mix only until the flour streaks disappear.
- Measure Correctly: For gluten-free flour, always use the spoon-and-level method (spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off) for accurate results.
- Cool Completely: Never try to frost the cake until it is completely cool, or the frosting will melt and slide off.
Storage and Serving Suggestions

This delicious gluten free carrot cake recipe stores very well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Serve the cake with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk for a perfect, comforting snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe
Q1: Is this gluten free carrot cake recipe halal?
A: Yes! This gluten free carrot cake recipe uses only plant-based or dairy ingredients and avoids alcohol or animal-derived gelatin, making it 100% halal.
Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, absolutely! To make it dairy-free, simply replace the melted butter with coconut oil or a certified dairy-free margarine.
Q3: Do I have to use xanthan gum?
A: You only need xanthan gum if your specific gluten-free all-purpose flour mix does not already include it. It is essential for giving the cake structure.
Q4: Can I add nuts or raisins?
A: Yes, both nuts and raisins are great additions! They add wonderful texture and flavor. Just ensure they are halal-certified before adding them to the batter.
Q5: How do I make cream cheese frosting gluten-free?
A: Cream cheese frosting is naturally gluten-free as it uses cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar. Just ensure your butter and cream cheese are halal-certified.
Conclusion
This gluten free carrot cake recipe is an easy, delicious, and reliable way to enjoy a classic dessert without worrying about gluten. It’s a moist, flavorful cake that is completely halal and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Bake a batch today and enjoy a delightful, homemade treat!

Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2½ cups gluten-free flour
- ¾ tsp xanthan gum if needed
- 1¼ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1¼ cups sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅔ cup oil canola or vegetable
- ½ cup melted butter or oil
- 3 cups shredded carrots
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch pans.
- Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugars, applesauce, oil, and butter.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures, then fold in carrots.
- Pour batter into pans and bake 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely, then frost with cream cheese frosting if desired.
