Carrot Walnut Cake is a timeless dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the crunch of walnuts, and the natural sweetness of carrots in a moist, flavorful cake. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious result every time. The balance between the soft texture of the cake and the slight crunch from the walnuts makes it a favorite among dessert lovers.
This cake is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack with tea, or as a delightful after-dinner dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra carrots while enjoying a rich and satisfying treat. Let’s get baking!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 40–45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8–10
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar (225 g)
- 1 cup milk (200 ml)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (200 ml)
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (300 g)
- 2 packets baking powder (20 g)
- 1 packet vanilla extract (5 g)
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (slightly less than a full cup)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and slightly frothy. This step helps to create a light and fluffy cake texture.
- Gradually add the milk and oil to the egg mixture, whisking continuously to combine all the ingredients smoothly.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, vanilla, and cinnamon to ensure an even distribution of dry ingredients.
Step 2: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed.
- Once the batter is smooth and lump-free, fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts, making sure they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by dusting it with powdered sugar or drizzling a simple cream cheese glaze on top.
- Serve with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful experience.
- If you want extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top before serving.
Additional Tips
- For a richer taste, you can replace the vegetable oil with melted butter.
- Add more spices like nutmeg or ginger for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
- Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Make it ahead: This cake freezes well! Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
This Carrot Walnut Cake is a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys soft, moist cakes with a hint of spice. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and offers a rich flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether you bake it for a gathering, a special event, or just to enjoy with your family, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Give it a try and let this delicious homemade treat bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking!