Carrot Walnut Cake is a delightful, moist cake packed with the natural sweetness of carrots and the crunch of walnuts. This classic dessert is lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a warm and comforting flavor. Whether served plain or topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 ½ cups
- Baking Powder – 2 teaspoons
- Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- Ground Nutmeg – ½ teaspoon
- Vegetable Oil – 1 ⅓ cups
- Light Brown Sugar – 1 cup
- Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
- Large Eggs – 4
- Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons
- Carrots – 3 cups, grated
- Walnuts – 1 cup, chopped
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
- Cream Cheese – 8 ounces, softened
- Unsalted Butter – ½ cup, softened
- Powdered Sugar – 4 cups
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine the Batter
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
- Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
6. Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
8. Serve & Enjoy
- Slice and serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Additional Tips
- Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture.
- Make ahead: Bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost before serving.
- Customize the nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
This Carrot Walnut Cake is a timeless dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. You can find more details here.