Carrot Walnut Cake Recipe

Carrot Walnut Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar (225 g)
• 1 cup milk (200 ml)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (200 ml)
• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (300 g)
• 2 packets baking powder (20 g)
• 1 packet vanilla (5 g)
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (just under a full cup)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Prepare the Baking Pan:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Grease the baking pan with 1 teaspoon of solid oil or use parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is pale and frothy.
2. Add the milk and oil, and whisk for an additional 10 seconds until just combined.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:

1. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and vanilla.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring on low speed until just blended.

Add the Carrots, Walnuts, and Cinnamon:

1. Gently fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon, mixing until evenly incorporated.

Bake the Cake:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
3. Slice and serve. This moist, flavorful cake pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a warm beverage like tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• For added richness, top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced, lighter dessert option.

Cooking Tips:

• Finely Grate the Carrots: This ensures a smoother texture in every bite.
• Toast the Walnuts: Lightly toasting the walnuts brings out their flavor and adds a subtle crunch.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Carrots: Packed with vitamins A and C, promoting good vision and a strong immune system.
• Walnuts: A great source of protein and heart-healthy fats.
• Cinnamon: Adds flavor while being low in calories, offering a warming touch to the cake.

Dietary Information:

• Contains nuts, dairy, and eggs—not suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 180mg

Storage Guidelines:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of fresh carrots, walnuts, and spices makes this cake irresistibly moist and flavorful.
• Simple to Prepare: With basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is accessible for any home baker.
• Versatile: Perfect for casual family gatherings, afternoon tea, or special celebrations.

Guilt-Free Indulgence:

Enjoy a homemade, all-natural treat without artificial additives.

Conclusion:

This Carrot Walnut Cake is a delicious and wholesome dessert that beautifully combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the crunch of walnuts and the warmth of cinnamon. Whether served for a cozy family get-together or at a celebratory event, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and relish the simple joys of baking at home!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, any neutral oil such as vegetable, sunflower, or even coconut oil can work.
• Can I replace the walnuts with another type of nut? Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts can be great substitutes.
• Can I add raisins or other dried fruits? Definitely! Adding raisins, cranberries, or other dried fruits will enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Can I use honey instead of sugar? Yes, you can substitute honey, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe to maintain the right consistency.
• What’s the key to ensuring the cake stays moist? Avoid overmixing the batter and be careful not to overbake the cake to retain its moist texture.
• Can I prepare this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.
• Is it possible to freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.
• What can I use if I don’t have vanilla? You can replace vanilla extract with almond extract or simply omit it for a more natural flavor.
• How do I know when the cake is fully baked? Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is done.

Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful Carrot Walnut Cake!