Carrot cake, with its moist crumb and luscious cream cheese frosting, is a classic treat loved by many. But what if I told you that you could whip up this delectable dessert with ease, right in your own kitchen? Yes, you heard that right! This carrot cake recipe is so simple and delicious that you’ll find yourself making it three times a week without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade carrot cake goodness!
Ingredients
To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need:
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup (150 grams) sugar
- 1/3 cup (80 grams) vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) flour
- Zest of 1 orange
- 7 ounces (200 grams) carrots, grated
- 1 cup (100 grams) walnuts, chopped (plus extra for decoration)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons (10 grams) baking powder
- Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, to taste (about 1 tablespoon of mixed spices)
For the creamy frosting:
- 7-8 ounces (200-250 grams) cream cheese
- 1/2 to 2/3 cup (50-65 grams) powdered sugar
Preparation
Let’s break down the steps to cake heaven:
Grating the Carrots and Orange Zest
Grab your grater and get ready to work some magic! Grate the carrots until you have a vibrant mound of orange goodness. Don’t forget to zest that orange too; it adds a burst of citrusy flavor that takes this cake to the next level.
Chopping the Walnuts
Time to add some crunch! Take your trusty knife or a grinder and chop those walnuts into delightful little pieces. These nutty nuggets will add texture and richness to every bite.
Beating Eggs and Sugar
Get your arm ready for some whisking action! Beat the eggs and sugar together until they’re light and frothy. This step adds air to the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
Adding Vegetable Oil
Pour in the vegetable oil and give it a good mix. This ingredient keeps the cake moist and tender, ensuring every bite is a delight.
Mixing Dry Ingredients and Spices
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and spices. Give them a good mix to ensure even distribution of flavor.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the grated carrots, orange zest, and chopped walnuts to the egg mixture. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender crumb, not a tough cake.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the tray and smooth it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, whip up the creamy frosting. Simply mix the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, and get ready to slather it on your cake.
Assembling and Decorating
Once the cake is cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Use a spatula to create swirls and peaks, then sprinkle with extra chopped walnuts for a decorative touch.
Cooling and Serving
Patience is a virtue! Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into it. This ensures clean cuts and prevents the frosting from melting. Once cooled, serve slices of this heavenly creation to eager guests or indulge in a piece (or three) yourself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this easy homemade carrot cake is a true winner in every sense. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a delicious dessert that will impress friends and family alike. So why wait? Get baking and treat yourself to a slice of carrot cake bliss today!
FAQs
1. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Indeed! This carrot cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
3. Can I freeze leftover cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
4. How can I make the frosting sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter frosting, you can add more powdered sugar to taste. Just be sure to adjust the consistency accordingly by adding a splash of milk if needed.
5. Can I substitute the orange zest with lemon?
Absolutely! Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. Feel free to swap it out for an equally delicious variation.
