Carrot cakes come in many variations, but this recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor. Packed with healthy ingredients like carrots, flaxseeds, and almonds, this cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. The creamy ricotta and yogurt frosting adds a delightful finishing touch, making it perfect for any occasion.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 60g plums
- 2 tablespoons flaxseeds (white flaxseeds preferred)
- 90ml water
- 230g carrots (grated on a fine grater)
- 80g oat flakes
- 60g almonds (or other nuts)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons stevia (or other sugar substitute)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 100ml milk (or water or orange juice)
For the Cream:
- 600g ricotta
- 100g yogurt (to mix with ricotta)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Pour boiling water over 60g of plums and let them soak for 10 minutes.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of flaxseeds with 90ml water and let it stand to thicken.
- Grate 230g of carrots on a fine grater.
- Finely chop the soaked plums.
- Measure out 80g of oat flakes and 60g of almonds.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, chopped plums, oat flakes, almonds, baking powder, salt, stevia, and cinnamon.
- Add the thickened flaxseed mixture (or 2 eggs if preferred).
- Pour in 100ml of milk (or water or orange juice) and mix well.
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the dough out in a thin layer (approximately 0.5 cm high).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check readiness with a toothpick; the cake is ready when no raw dough sticks to the toothpick.
- Let the cake cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream:
- Mix 600g ricotta with 100g yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake is cool, use a spatula to spread the ricotta and yogurt mixture evenly over the top.
- Place the cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to stabilize.
- Serve:
- Cut into pieces and enjoy a rich, flavorful dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy this cake with a cup of tea or coffee.
- It can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the plums are finely chopped to distribute evenly throughout the cake.
- You can substitute the flaxseeds with eggs if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a handful of raisins or walnuts to the batter.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Flaxseeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
- Almonds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Substitute oat flakes with gluten-free oats.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta and yogurt with dairy-free alternatives.
Storage:
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The cake can be frozen for up to a month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s easy to make and doesn’t require any special equipment.
- The combination of carrots, nuts, and a creamy topping is simply delicious.
- It’s a healthy dessert option with wholesome ingredients.
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Conclusion:
This carrot cake recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and taste. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious dessert that’s also nutritious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this carrot cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy baking and sharing this wonderful treat!