This Quick and Delicious Carrot and Walnut Cake is a perfect blend of warm spices, crunchy walnuts, and the fresh zest of orange. The grated carrots provide natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a wonderfully tender cake. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake is great for any occasion, from family gatherings to a cozy afternoon tea. Enjoy the rich flavors and nutritional benefits in every bite!
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:
- Eggs: 3 large
- Sugar: 150 g (about 3/4 cup)
- Vegetable Oil: 80 ml (about 1/3 cup)
- Flour: 180 g (about 1 1/2 cups) – All-purpose or 000 flour
- Orange Zest: From 1 orange
- Grated Carrot: 200 g (about 2 medium carrots)
- Walnuts: 100 g (about 1/2 cup), chopped
- Salt: A pinch
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Spice Mix for Cake: 1/2 teaspoon (includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, vanilla, and anise)
- Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
- Orange Juice: 1 tablespoon
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. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the vegetable oil while continuing to whisk, ensuring it is fully incorporated. - 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. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. - Add Flavor and Texture:
Add the grated carrot, orange zest, and orange juice to the batter. Stir gently to combine. Fold in the chopped walnuts to add crunch and flavor. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread 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 cooled, dust with powdered sugar or top with cream cheese frosting. Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- For added flavor, top with a cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Tips:
- Grate Carrots Finely: Use the fine side of a box grater to grate the carrots for a smoother texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and a lighter cake.
- Customize the Spice Mix: Adjust spices to your liking. Add more cinnamon for warmth or vanilla for sweetness.
- Citrus Twist: Add more orange zest or use lemon zest for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, converted to vitamin A for healthy vision and immune function.
- Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, promoting heart health.
- Oranges: Packed with vitamin C, supporting immune health and skin care.
- Spices: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Dietary Information:
- Calories: Approximately 280-320 per slice
- Protein: 4-5 grams per slice
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams per slice
- Fats: 15-18 grams per slice
- Fiber: 2-3 grams per slice
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice):
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slices before serving for better flavor.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just over an hour with minimal prep.
- Moist and Flavorful: Grated carrots and orange zest keep the cake moist and aromatic.
- Versatile: Perfect plain or with a frosting for any occasion.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, omega-3s, and antioxidants.
Conclusion:
This Quick and Delicious Carrot and Walnut Cake is an ideal dessert for those who love the combination of warm spices, citrus notes, and crunchy walnuts. It’s easy to make and versatile enough for any occasion, from a simple family snack to a festive gathering. The natural sweetness and moist texture will keep you coming back for more. Try this recipe today, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I use a different oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil. - How can I make this cake vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a dairy-free alternative for oil and milk. - Can I add raisins or other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates make great additions. - Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?
Yes, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts are good alternatives. - How do I prevent the cake from being dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy. - What’s the best way to grate carrots for this recipe?
Use a fine grater for smoother texture or a medium grater for more noticeable carrot pieces. - Can I use orange juice instead of zest?
While orange zest provides a stronger flavor, you can use extra orange juice for a subtle taste. - How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week. - Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the cooking time as needed.