All Recipes
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:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Grease the baking pan with 1 teaspoon of solid oil or use parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is pale and frothy.
- Add the milk and oil, and whisk for an additional 10 seconds until just combined.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring on low speed until just blended.
Add the Carrots, Walnuts, and Cinnamon:
- Gently fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon, mixing until evenly incorporated.
Bake the Cake:
- 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:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- 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!