Are you ready to indulge in a delightful slice of carrot cake? This classic dessert is not only moist and flavorful but also packed with hints of warm spices and fresh carrots. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert at home, this carrot cake recipe will quickly become a favorite. Follow along to create a cake that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This carrot cake recipe serves 12 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45-50 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g fat, 55g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 30g sugar. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil and eggs until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
9. Transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, using applesauce instead of oil can reduce calories while maintaining moisture.
Serving and Pairings
Pair your carrot cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also goes well with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store your carrot cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it well.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture.
- Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
- Skipping the cooling time can cause the frosting to melt.
- Using fresh carrots instead of pre-grated may affect moisture levels.
- Not adjusting baking time for different oven types can lead to undercooked cake.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Experiment with spices for unique flavor profiles.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- Toast walnuts before adding for enhanced flavor.
FAQs
Can I make carrot cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Frost it just before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in your carrot cake recipe. Each egg can be replaced with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.
How can I make my carrot cake more moist?
Add more grated carrots or crushed pineapple for added moisture. Additionally, ensure you do not overbake the cake, as this can dry it out.
What type of frosting goes well with carrot cake?
Cream cheese frosting is traditional and pairs perfectly with the spices of carrot cake. You could also use vanilla buttercream for a sweeter option.
Can I add raisins to the carrot cake?
Absolutely! Raisins can add sweetness and texture to your carrot cake. Just be sure to chop them if they are large.
Conclusion
This carrot cake recipe is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of carrots with warm spices, creating a dessert that everyone will love. Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy baking and indulging in every delicious slice!
Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple drained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil and eggs until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled.
