This delightful cake combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the refreshing zest of orange, all rounded off with a tropical coconut flourish. The use of gluten-free flour ensures that this cake is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, making it a thoughtful and inclusive option for various dietary needs. The rich demerara sugar provides a depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the ingredients, while the use of coconut oil adds a subtle hint of exotic freshness.
Why You'll Love This
If you're a fan of rich, moist cakes with a twist, this Carrot and Orange Cake is sure to captivate your taste buds. Its unique blend of flavors marries the traditional with the tropical, providing a delightful culinary surprise with each bite. The texture is perfectly balanced with the fluffiness of the beaten eggs, the moisture from the orange juice, and the slight crunch of grated carrots. This cake not only tastes wonderful but also fills your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma as it bakes.
Perfect Occasion
This cake is ideal for a variety of occasions, from festive gatherings and birthday celebrations to casual afternoon teas. It's a superb choice for Easter celebrations, given the carrot theme, or for summer picnics because of its refreshing citrus notes. Serve it at brunches or as a special treat after a family dinner; it's versatile enough to fit any event and will surely impress your guests.
Decoration Tips
To enhance the visual appeal of this cake, consider topping it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple orange glaze. For a festive look, add edible flowers or thinly sliced orange rounds for garnish. If serving during a holiday or special event, adorn the cake with themed decorations such as carrot-shaped marzipan or coconut flakes to elevate its tropical vibe.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup demerara sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 150 grams of grated carrots
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 cup dried grated coconut
- 1 cup gluten-free flour mix (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
Homemade Gluten-Free Flour Mix:
- 1/2 cup rice flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup sweet starch (such as tapioca)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit) and grease your baking form.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the eggs and sugar until the mixture doubles in volume, achieving a light and airy texture.
- Gradually blend in the coconut oil, followed by the grated carrots and orange juice, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the gluten-free flour mix, ensuring all ingredients are uniformly combined without any lumps.
- Fold in the dried grated coconut and baking powder, mixing until just incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared form and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy this wonderfully moist and flavorful cake that combines the best of sweet, earthy, and tropical flavors!