Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake is a delightful treat that effectively combines the sweetness of carrots and bananas with a satisfying crunch from walnuts. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a breakfast option, a snack, or a light dessert. Plus, this cake is packed with nutrients, making it a healthier choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that you’ll love!
What You’ll Need for Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake
To get started, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- ¾ cup oats (75g)
- 1¾ cups grated carrots (approximately 250g)
- 1 ripe banana
- 3 medium eggs
- ⅓ cup Extra Virgin olive oil (80ml)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg or cloves (optional)
- ¾ cup walnuts, chopped (75g)
- 250g yogurt (for topping)
- 1 tbsp honey (for topping)
How to Make Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to create your delicious cake:
- Blend the Oats: In a high-speed blender, blend the oats until they become fine flour.
- Grate the Carrots: Finely grate the carrots and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Mash the Banana: Using a fork, mash the ripe banana until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs and Extra Virgin olive oil to the bowl, mixing gently until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and optional spices (if using).
- Add Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Prepare to Bake: Line a baking tin with parchment paper and pour in the mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes.
- Make the Topping: While your cake is baking, mix the yogurt and honey together to create a creamy topping.
- Cool and Serve: Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly. Then, spread the yogurt topping on top and garnish with extra walnuts before serving.
How to Serve Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake
Serving this Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake is easy and enjoyable! Here are some perfect plating and pairing ideas:
- Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve it warm or at room temperature.
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional chopped walnuts on top alongside the yogurt topping.
- Pair it with your favorite cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.
Expert Tips for Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake
- Oat Flour Substitute: If you don’t have a high-speed blender, you can buy store-bought oat flour as a substitute for the blended oats.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to change up the walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can add a little more honey or even a spoonful of maple syrup to the batter.
Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: How long does the cake last?
A: The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to add the yogurt topping just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake?
A: Absolutely! Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze it for up to three months.
Enjoy making and sharing this Healthy Carrot-Walnut Cake with friends and family. It’s a delicious way to sneak in those nutritious veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth. Happy baking!