Name: Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 flax eggs (2 Tbsp ground flax + 6 Tbsp water); 1 cup mashed banana (245g), about 2-3 ripe bananas; 1 cup shredded carrot (85g); ¼ cup melted coconut oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup + 1 Tbsp coconut flour (34g), spooned & leveled; ¼ cup tapioca flour (32g); 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; ⅓ cup palm shortening; 2 Tbsp maple syrup; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 3 Tbsp tapioca flour

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There’s something so comforting about carrot cake, but wouldn’t it be amazing if it could be both delicious and nourishing? That’s exactly what you get with this Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe. These bars are beautifully moist and tender, naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, and topped with a luscious yet simple vanilla frosting. They cater to so many dietary needs while still delivering that classic carrot cake warmth we all crave. Trust me, once you try this twist on a timeless favorite, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for a recipe arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are two whole yellow bananas with small brown spots on their peel placed near the bottom left side. Above them is a small white bowl filled with creamy flax eggs. To the right of the flax eggs is a larger white bowl containing bright orange shredded carrot with a fine texture. Below the bananas is another white bowl holding fine white coconut flour. Next to the shredded carrot is a small white square bowl full of white tapioca flour. A metal measuring spoon containing vanilla powder lies beside the tapioca flour. Toward the bottom center, a white round plate has small piles of baking powder, cinnamon powder, salt, and nutmeg spice. Lastly, a small white bowl with clear coconut oil is placed near the bottom right. The background is clearly a white marbled countertop. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are refreshingly straightforward yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the wholesome shredded carrots adding a subtle sweetness and moisture, to the coconut flour providing the ideal gluten-free base, every component contributes thoughtfully to the final result.

2 flax eggs (2 Tbsp ground flax + 6 Tbsp water): Acts as a vegan binder, providing structure without eggs.
1 cup mashed banana (245g) about 2-3 ripe bananas: Adds natural sweetness and keeps the bars moist.
1 cup shredded carrot (85g): Brings freshness, subtle sweetness, and texture essential to carrot cake.
¼ cup melted coconut oil: Adds healthy fats and yields a tender, rich crumb.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor.
¼ cup + 1 Tbsp coconut flour (34g) spooned & leveled: A gluten-free flour that gives structure without heaviness.
¼ cup tapioca flour (32g): Helps keep the bars chewy and light.
2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the bars rise perfectly fluffy.
1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy notes that complement the carrots beautifully.
¼ tsp nutmeg: Provides a subtle earthy spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all flavors.

For the frosting:

⅓ cup palm shortening: A paleo-friendly base that creates a smooth, creamy texture.
2 Tbsp maple syrup: Natural sweetener that pairs perfectly with the vanilla.
½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds rich fragrance and enhances sweetness.
3 Tbsp tapioca flour: Thickens the frosting without any grainy texture.

How to Make Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Eggs

Start by mixing 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken and gel. This simple flax egg substitute is crucial to keeping the bars vegan while ensuring they hold together beautifully.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Peel and mash your ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl. Using ripe bananas is key because their natural sweetness and moisture are what make these bars tender and flavorful without the need for refined sugars.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the shredded carrot, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and your flax eggs to the mashed bananas. Mix everything well so that each ingredient is evenly distributed, which guarantees a consistent texture and flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Now, add the coconut flour, tapioca flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to your wet mixture. Stir until you have a smooth and thick batter. The combination of flours here is essential for that perfect gluten-free, paleo-friendly crumb with the right chewiness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch glass baking dish and pop it into the oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for about 45 minutes until it’s golden and just firm to the touch. Leaving the bars in the pan to cool is important as they continue setting and become easier to slice.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Frosting

While the bars cool, whisk together palm shortening, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Gradually add tapioca flour a tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. You might want to warm the shortening slightly if it’s too firm, just for a few seconds.

Step 7: Frost and Chill

Spread the creamy frosting evenly over the cooled bars. For an extra touch of flair and texture, sprinkle your favorite toppings like chopped nuts or bee pollen. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for 10 to 20 minutes so the frosting sets nicely before cutting into 16 delicious bars.

How to Serve Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe

The image shows three square pieces of carrot cake stacked on a white marbled surface. Each piece has two layers: a thick, moist-looking bottom layer with visible small orange carrot bits and a smooth, creamy light yellow top layer of frosting. The top piece is garnished with small dried orange and yellow flower petals. In the background, there is a white cup with a handle and some blurred additional cake pieces on white plates, all against a light wooden texture wall. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe, try garnishing with toasted walnuts, pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder. These additions not only add a satisfying crunch but also highlight the warm spices already in the bars.

Side Dishes

These bars are perfectly satisfying on their own but also fabulous alongside a hot cup of herbal tea, a chilled glass of almond milk, or even a fresh fruit salad to brighten up the plate with a burst of freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, consider layering the bars with a dollop of coconut whipped cream and a few fresh berries on top. Alternatively, wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine to gift a homemade delight that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and moist for up to 5 days, making them the perfect grab-and-go snack or quick breakfast treat.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months frozen, letting you enjoy them anytime cravings strike.

Reheating

To enjoy the bars warm, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight then heat briefly in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked softness and the frosting remains wonderfully creamy.

FAQs

Can I use another egg substitute instead of flax eggs?

Yes, chia eggs (1 tablespoon chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water) work well too. The goal is to use an ingredient that gels and binds the batter without adding egg.

What if I don’t have tapioca flour?

You can substitute tapioca flour with arrowroot powder or cornstarch, although the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Are these bars low in sugar?

Absolutely! The sweetness comes naturally from ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup in the frosting, making these bars a healthier dessert or snack option.

Can I add nuts or raisins into the batter?

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts or raisins can add delightful texture and flavor, just fold them in at the end before baking.

Is palm shortening necessary for the frosting?

Palm shortening helps achieve the right texture and paleo compliance, but if unavailable, solid coconut oil chilled can be a substitute, though the frosting might be softer.

Final Thoughts

It’s rare to find a recipe that feels indulgent yet aligns with so many lifestyle choices, but this Healthy Carrot Cake Bars (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Vegan) Recipe hits all the marks. These bars bring a cozy, nostalgic carrot cake flavor in a nutrient-dense, allergy-friendly form that your whole family can enjoy. Once you bake these, they’ll quickly become your go-to treat for a wholesome dessert or uplifting snack. I can’t wait for you to try them and fall in love just like I did!