Simple Carrot Cake
This carrot cake is made by mixing grated carrots into a moist batter that is flavored with warm spices and toasted nuts, then baked until golden. The final cake has a tender crumb with a subtle, springy texture and an inviting aroma of cinnamon and carrots.
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Calories: 290kcal
Servings: 8
Equipment
- Whisk or spatula
- Loaf or round baking pan
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots about 3-4 medium carrots
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil or neutral-flavored oil
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 cups toasted chopped nuts (optional) e.g., walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and even baking.
- Grate the carrots finely and measure out about 2 cups. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy—this helps to incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Slowly pour in the oil while whisking, blending everything into a uniform, slightly shiny batter.
- Fold in the grated carrots gently with a spatula, making sure they are evenly distributed without deflating the mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda. Sift if desired for a smoother batter.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- If using, fold in the toasted nuts for added texture and flavor, mixing just enough to distribute them evenly.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely; this helps set the crumb and makes slicing easier.
- Once cooled, slice and serve your moist, spiced carrot cake. Enjoy the tender crumb and warm aroma with your favorite beverage.
Nutrition
Calories: 290kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 220mg | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg