Is it surprising that one of the most beloved cakes in the world is made with a vegetable? Not at all! Carrots possess a natural sweetness that becomes even more pronounced when baked, making them a perfect star ingredient in desserts. This classic carrot cake recipe showcases the vegetable’s delightful qualities, complemented by a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting that elevates it to pure indulgence. With no need for added ingredients like crushed pineapple or walnuts, this recipe has garnered five-star ratings from over 400 enthusiastic bakers. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this carrot cake so extraordinary.

Why This Carrot Cake Recipe Stands Out

This moist carrot cake recipe captures the essence of flavor and texture through a unique combination of ingredients. The earthiness of the carrots harmonizes beautifully with the warm spice of ground cinnamon, while the depth of flavor comes from both brown sugar and golden syrup. Together, they create a cake that is not only moist and tender but also sturdy enough to hold the luscious cream cheese frosting.

Key Ingredients

1. Golden Syrup: This thick, amber-colored syrup is a quintessential ingredient in this recipe. When combined with olive oil and brown sugar, it infuses the cake batter with a rich, sweet depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
2. Vanilla: A key flavor enhancer, vanilla adds a fragrant aroma that elevates the cake’s deliciousness. The essence of vanilla is essential for any great carrot cake.
3. Cinnamon: This spice beautifully bridges the gap between the earthy notes of carrots and the sweetness of the cake batter. It adds warmth and complexity to every bite.
4. Carrots: The star of the show, carrots bring a natural sweetness and moistness to this cake. When grated, they contribute to a tender crumb and a slight texture that is delightful.
5. Olive Oil: Unlike traditional butter-based cakes, this recipe calls for olive oil, which lends extra moisture and a softer crumb. The result is a cake that melts in your mouth while maintaining its structure.

Entertaining? Explore More Carrot Cake Variations

If you’re looking to impress a crowd, consider trying some of our other carrot cake recipes, such as a gluten-free carrot cake, a decadent carrot cake cheesecake, or even breakfast-inspired carrot cake pancakes. There’s a carrot cake for every occasion!

Classic Carrot Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients (14)

• Olive oil, to grease
• 1 cup (150g) self-raising flour
• 1/2 cup (75g) plain flour
• 1 tsp bicarbonate soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (80g) brown sugar
• 3/4 cup (185ml) olive oil
• 1/2 cup (125ml) golden syrup
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla essence
• 2 medium carrots (approximately 300g), peeled and grated

For the Icing:

• 250g spreadable cream cheese
• 1/2 cup (80g) pure icing sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla essence

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

Preheat your oven to 170°C (or 150°C for fan-forced). Lightly grease a 20cm (base) round cake pan with olive oil, and line the base with non-stick baking paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal once baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, and ground cinnamon. This step aerates the dry ingredients, helping the cake to rise and providing a light texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, olive oil, golden syrup, eggs, and vanilla essence. Using a balloon whisk, mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, gently stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake. Finally, fold in the grated carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While the cake cools, prepare the icing. In a mixing bowl, combine the spreadable cream cheese, pure icing sugar, and vanilla essence. Use a hand-held mixer or a stand mixer to beat the mixture until it is well combined and fluffy. The cream cheese icing should have a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create swirls or patterns for a decorative touch.

Storing Your Carrot Cake

To keep your carrot cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve it for longer, you can freeze the un-iced cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. To enjoy, simply thaw it on the kitchen counter. The cake also freezes beautifully; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to maintain its moisture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Energy: 1598 kJ (382 kcal)
• Protein: 4.8g
• Total Fat: 21.8g
• Saturated Fat: 5.6g
• Total Carbohydrates: 41.9g
• Sugars: 26.5g
• Sodium: 326.2mg
• Cholesterol: 0.1g

Why Carrots Make the Perfect Cake Ingredient

Carrots are not just any vegetable; they are incredibly versatile and nutritious. When grated, they release natural sugars that contribute to the sweetness of the cake without the need for excessive added sugars. The moisture in carrots also ensures that the cake remains tender and soft, making it a delightful treat. Additionally, the health benefits of carrots—rich in vitamins and fiber—mean you can enjoy this dessert with a little less guilt.

Conclusion

This classic carrot cake recipe is a celebration of flavor, texture, and simplicity. With its moist crumb, natural sweetness, and the velvety cream cheese frosting, it is sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether served at a birthday party, family gathering, or simply as a sweet treat for yourself, this carrot cake stands as a testament to the delicious possibilities of using vegetables in baking. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the delightful world of carrot cake!

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