One Bowl Carrot Cake Recipe with Oats and Ricotta

​​​​Since committing to a healthier lifestyle last month, including regular workouts and a balanced diet, I’ve waved goodbye to sugar-laden desserts and started exploring healthier alternatives, like this high-protein muffin recipe. One day, while walking by a bakery, the sight of a carrot cake instantly reminded me of childhood memories, making my mouth water. I couldn’t shake the craving, but then I thought, “Why not create a healthier version that fits into my new diet?” And so, I did! I’m excited to share this easy, low-sugar Carrot Cake with Oats and Ricotta that’s not only diet-friendly but absolutely delicious.

Considerations Before Baking

This healthy carrot cake is an excellent substitute for the traditional version. Yet, this version may not be to your liking if you’re not a fan of the original carrot cake recipe. Also, low-sugar desserts, while delicious in their own right, do have a distinct taste compared to their sugar-filled counterparts. If you are a fan of classic carrot cake, you might notice some differences, so I recommend keeping that in mind when trying this recipe for the first time.

A Diet-friendly Carrot Cake

What makes this cake stand out is its lightness. Most carrot cakes are packed with oil or butter, but this version is light on calories and big on flavor. It’s a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it a perfect treat without the guilt. Plus, it’s so easy to make – just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and you’re good to go!

The Secret Component: Ricotta Cream Topping

What truly makes this cake exceptional is the ricotta cream topping. While other recipes may call for Greek yogurt or skip the topping altogether, trust me, the ricotta cream is a game-changer. It adds the perfect amount of sweetness and a rich, creamy texture that elevates the entire cake. I personally recommend using Galbani ricotta cheese for its smooth consistency. Don’t skip this step – it’s what makes this cake so special!

Ingredient notes

Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the cake’s foundation. Quick oats oats won’t yield the same results.

Protein Powder: Vanilla-flavored protein powder works best for this recipe. Other flavors might alter the cake’s taste.

Ricotta: As I mentioned earlier, ricotta cheese is a key ingredient here.  For the full enjoyment of this cake, I strongly recommend you stick with ricotta cheese.

Soy or Almond Milk: This helps keep the calories low while maintaining the right consistency. Regular milk also works if you prefer.

Maple Syrup: The best natural sweetener for this cake. Using honey may change the flavor.

Easy Low-Calorie Carrot Cake with Oats and Ricotta Cream

Alina

Adopting a healthier lifestyle, I discovered a delightful, diet-friendly carrot cake recipe that brings joy without guilt. Its ricotta cream topping adds indulgence, proving that health and pleasure can coexist. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while adhering to dietary goals.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Servings 6 portions

Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Baking form 8 inches (20 cm) or rectangular silicone pan (26 x 10 x 7 cm)
• 1 middle size bowl

Ingredients

  

Cake’s Foundation:

• 1 cup Rolled Oats (100 g)
• 1.2 cup Granted Carrots (150 g)
• 2 mid ripe bananas, mashed (160-180 g)
• 0.6 cup Soy Milk or Regular milk (160 ml)
• 1/4 cup Walnuts. Almonds or Pecans, crushed (25 g)
• 0.5 tsp Cinnamon (3 g)
• 1 oz Protein Powder (30 g)
• 0,2 cup Maple Syrup (40 ml)
• 0,5 tsp Baking Power (3 g)
• 1 Egg

Topping:

• 4-7 0z Ricotta(125 – 200 g)
• 2 tbsp Icing Sugar (20 g)
• 0,5 oz Nuts (15 g)

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 180°C.
• In a bowl, thoroughly mix oats, grated carrots, mashed bananas, baking powder, soy milk, protein powder, egg, cinnamon, maple syrup, nuts and salt.
• Prepare the baking form by greasing it with butter or lining it with baking paper. I've experimented with various baking forms, and I find that the rectangular silicone pan works best for me. It eliminates the need for butter or baking paper.
• Transfer the mixture from the bowl to the prepared baking pan.
• Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes.
• Once baked, allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes.
• Prepare the ricotta cream by mixing ricotta with icing sugar either by hand or with a mixer.
• Spread the cream over the cake.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the cake.
• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
• Enjoy a piece of healthy, guilt-free carrot cake!

Keyword carrot cake, diet-friendly carrot cake, healthy dessert, low calorie carrot cake, low sugar carrot cake recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & Low-Calorie: Indulge in a guilt-free dessert that fits perfectly into your diet plan.
• Quick & Easy: Just mix the ingredients, bake, and top with the creamy ricotta—no fuss!
• Rich in Protein: The protein powder adds a boost of nutrition.
• Diet-Friendly: A perfect balance of carbs, fats, and protein, without the overload of sugar.

This One Bowl Carrot Cake with Oats and Ricotta is a great way to enjoy a healthier version of a classic favorite. Perfect for a breakfast treat, dessert, or a snack that satisfies your sweet cravings without any guilt. Enjoy!