This Carrot Cake with Orange and Chocolate is a dream come true for anyone who loves quick, flavorful desserts. Combining the natural sweetness of carrots, the zest of orange, and the richness of chocolate, this cake is moist, fluffy, and packed with delightful flavors. What’s more, it's incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a sweet treat without much fuss.
Why You'll Love This: The appeal of this cake lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors. The freshness of orange zest paired with the earthiness of carrots and the indulgence of chocolate creates a multidimensional taste that's both refreshing and satisfying. It's also made with healthier ingredients like whole wheat flour, which adds a nice texture and boosts the nutritional value.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is ideal for casual get-togethers, afternoon tea, or as a delightful dessert after a family dinner. It's also a great choice for festive occasions where you want something sweet that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Whether it's a birthday party or a seasonal celebration, this cake will fit right in.
Decoration Tips: For a simple yet elegant finish, dust the cake with powdered sugar once it has cooled. If you’re feeling creative, top it with a drizzle of orange glaze and sprinkle some grated orange zest or place a few chocolate shavings or chips on top for an extra touch of decadence. Serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also enhance the dessert experience.
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of whole wheat flour (or a mix of 125 grams all-purpose and 125 grams whole wheat)
- 200 grams of carrots, peeled and trimmed
- 150 grams of sugar
- 150 grams of orange juice
- 120 grams of vegetable oil
- Grated zest of one orange
- 100 grams of chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Dissolve the sugar in the orange juice and zest in a mixing bowl.
- In a blender, purée the carrots with the oil until smooth, then mix this into the orange juice mixture.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together and fold into the wet ingredients until well combined.
- Lightly flour the chocolate pieces (to prevent them from sinking in the batter) and stir them into the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 20/22 cm cake mold.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 40-45 minutes. Use a toothpick to check doneness; if necessary, extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes at 170°C (338°F).
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool, then dust with powdered sugar.
Enjoy this delightful Carrot Cake with Orange and Chocolate, perfect for any occasion where you need a quick and tasty dessert!