Carrot Walnut Cake: A Quick, Easy, and Irresistibly Moist Dessert
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious cake to impress your friends, family, or coworkers, look no further than this Carrot Walnut Cake. It’s not only a perfect dessert for any occasion, but it’s also quick, easy, and incredibly moist. With the natural sweetness of carrots and the crunchy texture of walnuts, this cake is sure to become your go-to recipe whenever you crave a delightful treat.
Why You’ll Love This Carrot Walnut Cake
Quick and Easy: This cake comes together in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious dessert ready in about an hour.
Moist and Flavorful: The combination of milk, vegetable oil, and carrots ensures that the cake is wonderfully moist, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
Versatile: This cake can be served for various occasions—whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or a casual tea time with friends. It’s also perfect for meal prep as it lasts several days in the fridge.
No Fancy Equipment Needed: No need for fancy mixers or gadgets! This cake can be made with just a whisk, a bowl, and a baking pan, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who wants a low-stress baking experience.
Ingredients for the Best Carrot Walnut Cake
To make this delicious cake, you’ll need a few simple pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
4 large eggs: These provide the structure for the cake and help bind the ingredients together.
1.5 cups granulated sugar (225 g): Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the earthiness of the carrots.
1 cup milk (200 ml): Keeps the cake moist and adds a soft, tender crumb.
1 cup vegetable oil (200 ml): Provides richness and moisture, making the cake incredibly soft and tender.
2.5 cups all-purpose flour (300 g): This is the base for the cake. You could substitute a portion of the flour with whole wheat flour if you prefer a slightly healthier option.
1.5 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.
1 tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder to help the cake rise and ensures it stays fluffy.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, fragrant spice that enhances the flavor of the carrots and walnuts.
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and adds depth of flavor.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
2 cups finely grated carrots: Fresh carrots are the star of this cake, providing both natural sweetness and moisture.
1 cup chopped walnuts: Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the carrots.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Carrot Walnut Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or you can use a 9×13-inch baking dish if you prefer a thinner cake). You could also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, 1.5 cups granulated sugar, and 1 cup milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the 1 cup vegetable oil and continue whisking until fully incorporated. The oil helps create a rich, moist texture, so don’t skip this ingredient!
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1.5 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps and helps distribute the baking powder and spices evenly throughout the batter.
Step 4: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until the mixture is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser cake. The batter should be thick and smooth.
Step 5: Fold in the Carrots and Walnuts
Next, fold in the 2 cups finely grated carrots and 1 cup chopped walnuts. The carrots add moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts give the cake a satisfying crunch. Be sure to evenly distribute the carrots and walnuts throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes (for a round cake pan) or about 25-30 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready to come out.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the cake set and make it easier to slice. You can serve it as-is, or for an extra touch, frost it with a simple cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for the Perfect Carrot Walnut Cake
Grating the Carrots: For the best texture, use fresh carrots and grate them finely. Avoid pre-grated carrots as they tend to be dry and can affect the moisture of the cake.
Walnut Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even raisins for a different flavor.
Make it Vegan: To make this cake vegan, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water for each egg) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Frosting Options: For a decadent touch, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk also works wonderfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Carrot Walnut Cake in advance?
Yes, this cake actually improves with time! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’ve added frosting, keep the cake in the fridge.
Can I freeze this Carrot Walnut Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the other ingredients, like baking powder and baking soda, are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with Carrot Walnut Cake?
Carrot walnut cake is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Conclusion
This Carrot Walnut Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a simple, yet decadent treat. Its moist texture, rich flavor, and crunchy walnuts make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients—what’s not to love? Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Bake it today, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of comfort in no time!