This carrot and walnut cake is the perfect combination of warm spices, crunchy walnuts, and the zesty freshness of orange. The grated carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a wonderfully tender and flavorful cake. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or simply craving a delicious dessert, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a cake that anyone can make and enjoy!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- 150 g (about 3/4 cup) sugar
- 80 ml (about 1/3 cup) vegetable oil
- 180 g (about 1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour (or 000 flour)
- Zest from 1 orange
- 200 g (about 2 medium carrots) grated
- 100 g (about 1/2 cup) walnuts, chopped
- A pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon spice mix (includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, vanilla, and anise)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Directions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. -
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the vegetable oil while continuing to whisk, making sure it’s fully incorporated into the mixture. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, spice mix, and cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until everything is combined. -
Add Flavor and Texture:
Stir in the grated carrots, orange zest, and orange juice, mixing gently to incorporate. Fold in the chopped walnuts for added crunch and flavor. -
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. -
Serve:
Once the cake has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a simple finish or top it with cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence. Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet touch.
- Pair it with a warm cup of tea or coffee to complement the flavors of the cake.
- For an extra layer of richness, top with cream cheese frosting or a light drizzle of honey.
Cooking Tips
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the batter to enhance their crunch and depth of flavor.
- Be sure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added—this will keep the cake light and fluffy.
- If you don’t have orange juice on hand, you can substitute with a bit of lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
- Carrots: Rich in vitamins A and C, carrots support eye health and boost the immune system.
- Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats, walnuts are excellent for heart health and provide protein and fiber.
- Orange Zest and Juice: Full of vitamin C, the orange zest and juice add freshness and antioxidants to the cake.
- Spices: The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory properties and help with digestion.
Conclusion This carrot and walnut cake is an easy-to-make, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With the natural sweetness of carrots, the nuttiness of walnuts, and the citrusy freshness of orange, this cake is a delightful treat for the senses. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every bite of its tender, spiced goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just let it cool completely before storing.
2. Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds if preferred.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Just make sure the baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.
4. Can I use other fruits instead of carrots?
While carrots are the traditional choice for this cake, you can try substituting them with finely grated apples or zucchini for a different flavor.
5. How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can also freeze slices of cake for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave before serving.