Carrot Walnut Cake Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the aroma of a freshly baked carrot walnut cake wafting through your home. This cake combines the natural sweetness of carrots, the crunch of walnuts, and the warm spice of cinnamon to create a dessert that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just someone looking for a simple and delicious recipe to impress family and friends, this carrot walnut cake is the perfect choice. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.

Ingredients

Before diving into the preparation process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable baking experience:

• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar (225 g)
• 1 cup milk (200 ml)
• 1 cup 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 (approximately 4 medium-sized carrots)
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped (slightly less than a full cup for balance)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation Time 

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes pale and creamy. Stir in the milk and oil, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, vanilla, and cinnamon. This step helps eliminate lumps and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine them gently, avoiding overmixing to maintain a light texture.

Step 5: Add the Carrots and Walnuts

Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts. These ingredients give the cake its signature flavor and texture, so ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. For an added touch, dust with powdered sugar or top with cream cheese frosting.

Serving Suggestions

This carrot walnut cake is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Classic: Enjoy a warm slice with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Elegant: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Festive: Decorate with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top.

Tips for Success

1. Fresh Carrots: Use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best flavor and moisture.
2. Walnut Substitutions: For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with raisins or dried cranberries.
3. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a deeper spice profile.
4. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

This carrot walnut cake is a true delight—simple enough for beginners yet satisfying for seasoned bakers. Its moist texture, rich flavors, and the added crunch of walnuts make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a celebratory dessert, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and experience the magic of homemade baking!