Homemade Carrot Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade carrot cake is a classic dessert loved by many. It’s moist, flavorful, and can be enjoyed on any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a treat for yourself. The combination of sweet carrots, crushed pineapple, and crunchy walnuts makes every bite special. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh veggies in your baking!

How to Make Homemade Carrot Cake

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious homemade carrot cake that your friends and family will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Homemade Carrot Cake

You can serve homemade carrot cake plain or with a cream cheese frosting for added sweetness. It’s great as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack during the day. Consider adding some extra chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for decoration.

How to Store Homemade Carrot Cake

To store your homemade carrot cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Homemade Carrot Cake

• Make sure to use fresh grated carrots for the best flavor and moisture.
• You can add raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients; mix until just combined.

Variation

You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or leave them out altogether for a nut-free version. Adding a bit of orange zest can also brighten the flavor of the cake.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may make the cake denser. You might want to use half and half (a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose) for a lighter texture.

2. How can I make this cake dairy-free?
You can use plant-based oil and substitute eggs with flax eggs or any egg replacer of your choice.

3. Can I make carrot cupcakes instead of a cake?
Absolutely! Just pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for about 18-20 minutes. Check with a toothpick to make sure they’re done.