If you’re looking for a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and packed with texture, the Carrot Walnut Cake is your go-to recipe. This classic cake combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy crunch of walnuts, creating a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why Carrot Walnut Cake?
Carrot cakes have been loved for generations due to their unique combination of vegetables and sweetness. Adding walnuts not only gives the cake a satisfying crunch but also enhances its nutritional value. Plus, the rich spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to each bite, making it perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
¾ cup chopped walnuts
Optional Add-Ins (Optional but recommended for extra flavor)
½ cup raisins (optional)
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional but delicious)
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS:
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can also use a round cake pan or a loaf pan if preferred.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures that the cake will rise nicely and have that warm spiced flavor.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Everything
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Then, fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts. If you’re using raisins or coconut, fold them in as well.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Easy Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
If you want to add frosting to your cake, here’s an easy way to make it:
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and enjoy!
Tips for an Easier Process
Use pre-grated carrots: Save time by using store-bought pre-grated carrots.
Skip the frosting: If you’re in a hurry, this cake is still delicious without frosting. A dusting of powdered sugar works perfectly.
Make it a loaf: For an even simpler process, pour the batter into a loaf pan and bake it like a carrot walnut bread. It’s just as tasty, but even easier to slice and serve.
ENJOY IT 💛