Experience the joy of baking with this Quick and Moist Carrot Cake, enhanced with a rich blend of spices and topped with a delectable cream cheese frosting. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of finely grated carrots with the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon and optional spices like ginger and cloves. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.
Why You'll Love This: This carrot cake stands out for its simplicity and rich, satisfying flavor. The mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour provides a slightly nutty taste while maintaining a moist and delicate crumb. The addition of raisins and walnuts adds a lovely texture, making each slice a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The cream cheese frosting, with its perfect balance of sweetness and tang, complements the cake beautifully.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is ideal for family gatherings, celebrations, or as a special treat for any occasion. Its quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for last-minute baking, while its rich, moist texture ensures it will be loved by everyone. Whether it's a birthday party, a holiday feast, or a simple weekend dessert, this carrot cake is sure to impress.
Decoration Tips: For an elegant and festive look, sprinkle chopped nuts over the frosting or dust lightly with cinnamon. You can also add decorative touches like carrot-shaped marzipan or fondant pieces for a fun and whimsical appearance. A light sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible flowers can add a touch of sophistication, making this cake as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 250g flour (half whole wheat, half all-purpose)
- 120g sugar (mascabo, or regular brown/white sugar)
- 3 large carrots, finely grated (approx. 350g)
- 200ml sunflower oil
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (optional: add ginger, cloves for more spice)
- Raisins and walnuts to taste (approx. 120g)
- For the Frosting:
- 40g butter
- 40g powdered sugar
- 90g cream cheese
- Milk, if needed, to adjust consistency
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 24cm cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon (plus any additional spices if using).
- In a separate bowl, mix together the grated carrots, sunflower oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the raisins and walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cream cheese and continue to beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- For an added touch, sprinkle with chopped nuts, a dusting of cinnamon, or decorative carrot-shaped marzipan pieces.
Enjoy your Quick and Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a deliciously spiced treat that's perfect for any occasion and sure to impress!