Ingredients
- Eggs: 3 large
- : 80 ml (about 1/3 cup)
- Flour: 180 g (about 1 1/2 cups) – All-purpose or 000 flour
- Orange Zest: From 1 orange
- Sugar: 150 g (about 3/4 cup)
- Grated Carrot: 200 g (about 2 medium carrots)
- Walnuts: 100 g (about 1/2 cup), chopped
- Salt: A pinch
- Spice Mix for Cake: 1/2 teaspoon (includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, vanilla, and anise)
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
- Orange Juice: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the while continuing to whisk, ensuring that it is fully incorporated into the egg mixture.
- 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.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, spice mix, and cinnamon. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking powder and spices.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to avoid a dense cake.
- Add Flavor and Texture:
- Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts. These add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the cake.
- Add the grated carrot, orange zest, and orange juice to the batter. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the carrot and zest are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it 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, top it with a cream cheese frosting, or serve it as is for a simpler presentation. Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips
- Grate the Carrots Finely: For a smoother texture, use the fine side of a box grater to grate the carrots. This allows the carrot to blend seamlessly into the cake, adding moisture without being too noticeable.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps them to mix better with the other ingredients, resulting in a lighter cake.
- Orange Variations: If you love citrus, you can add a little more orange zest or juice for a more pronounced flavor. Alternatively, lemon zest can be used for a slightly different twist.
- Spice Mix Customization: The spice mix adds warmth and depth to the cake, but feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. You can add more cinnamon for a spicier kick or increase the vanilla for a sweeter, aromatic flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This carrot and walnut cake is more than just a sweet treat; it offers some notable nutritional benefits:
- Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for healthy vision and immune function. They also provide dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
- Walnuts: Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They also contain antioxidants, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to the cake.
- Orange Zest and Juice: Oranges are packed with vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. The zest adds not only flavor but also a boost of nutrients.
- Spices: The blend of spices used in this cake provides not only warmth and flavor but also various health benefits. For example, cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of grated carrot and orange zest keeps the cake moist and bursting with flavor, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch.
- Quick and Easy: This carrot and walnut cake comes together in no time, making it a perfect choice for when you need a dessert in a hurry.
- Versatile: Whether you enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with a rich frosting, this cake is versatile enough to suit any occasion.
- Nutritious: With ingredients like carrots, walnuts, and spices, this cake offers more than just indulgence; it’s packed with nutrients that contribute to overall health.
Dietary Information
- Calories: Approximately 280-320 calories per slice (depending on portion size and additional toppings)
- Protein: 4-5 grams per slice
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams per slice
- Fats: 15-18 grams per slice
- Fiber: 2-3 grams per slice
This cake can be adapted to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. To reduce sugar, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or coconut sugar.
Why This Recipe Works
This Quick and Delicious Carrot and Walnut Cake works because it balances the natural sweetness of carrots with the zesty freshness of orange and the warmth of spices. The walnuts add texture and richness, making each bite satisfying and flavorful. The use of baking powder ensures the cake rises well, giving it a light and fluffy texture, while the combination of oil and grated carrot keeps it moist. The orange juice and zest add a citrusy note that complements the earthiness of the carrots and the spice blend. Overall, the ingredients work harmoniously together to create a cake that is both simple and sophisticated.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cake that’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and packed with nutritious ingredients, this Quick and Delicious Carrot and Walnut Cake is the perfect choice. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a dessert, a snack, or even a breakfast treat. With its moist texture, vibrant flavors, and the added crunch of walnuts, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start baking this delightful cake today – your taste buds will thank you!