Carrot Walnut Cake
Few desserts capture the essence of home-baked warmth like a Carrot Walnut Cake. This classic treat combines the sweetness of carrots with the crunchiness of walnuts, delivering a delightful texture and rich flavor in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual afternoons, this recipe will guide you through creating a moist, fluffy, and flavorful carrot walnut cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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Ingredients for Carrot Walnut Cake
For ease, we’ve listed the ingredients in a convenient table format. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this helps in achieving the perfect cake texture.
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Grated carrots | 2 cups |
| Chopped walnuts | 1 cup |
| Crushed pineapple (drained) | 1/2 cup |
| Unsweetened applesauce | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking the Carrot Walnut Cake
1. Preparing the Ingredients and Preheating the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Grate the carrots and set aside. The fresh carrots will contribute to the cake’s moisture and natural sweetness.
- Chop the walnuts if they aren’t pre-chopped. Toasting them briefly can enhance their flavor, but this is optional.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
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- All-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Whisk until evenly combined to ensure the spices are well-distributed, giving each slice a balanced flavor.
3. Blending the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:
- Vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and fully combined.
- Stir in the applesauce and crushed pineapple, which add a natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
4. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.
- Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts. The carrots add a lovely texture and color, while the walnuts bring a pleasant crunch.
5. Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
