Carrot Walnut Soft Cake Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil (or melted butter).
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Carrots and Walnuts

1. Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional)

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
2. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
3. Optional: Garnish with additional chopped walnuts on top for decoration.

Tips and Variations

• Add-ins: Consider adding raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for longer storage—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake gluten-free.

Conclusion

Carrot Walnut Soft Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the crunch of walnuts, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself to a sweet indulgence. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your apron and enjoy baking this delicious carrot walnut cake!