When it comes to doughy cakes, a simple carrot cake recipe will always be at the top of my preferences. However, I developed this particular dish some years back, and now it has become a December must in this house. It's the best carrot cake recipe to get into the holiday spirit, as it literally tastes like Christmas.

Now, I don't want to linger too much on introductions since I know how frustrating those long descriptions are.

In the end, we all want an easy carrot cake recipe, not a block of text only for Google to read.

This being said, let me teach you how to make carrot cake, the Christmas version.

Instructions: How to Bake Carrot Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Dry and Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, sugars, and chopped walnuts. Set aside.

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• In a second bowl, prepare the wet ingredients. Grate the carrots and apples, then drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation. Mix in the yogurt, vanilla essence, raisins, and dried cranberries.

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Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Combine

• In a standing mixer, beat the eggs for 4-7 minutes until fluffy. Slowly drizzle in the grapeseed oil while mixing.

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• Begin incorporating the prepared ingredients, alternating between a spoonful of the dry mix and a spoonful of the wet mix until everything is combined.

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Step 3: Bake the Carrot Cake

• Prepare a springform (16cm for 3 thick layers or 20cm for 2 layers) by greasing it and lining it with baking paper.
• Pour the cake batter into the springform and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 1-1.5 hours.

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• Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If the top browns too quickly after 45-50 minutes, reduce the temperature to 160°C (320°F).
• Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into layers.

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Step 4: Assemble with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Prepare the frosting by beating the butter, cream cheese, and icing sugar for 3-5 minutes until fluffy.
• Spread a 1-2cm thick layer of frosting between each cake layer and finish by coating the cake. Garnish with cranberries, cinnamon, and rosemary for a festive look.
• Refrigerate overnight for the flavors to set.

About This Recipe

Carrot cake has roots in medieval Europe when sweeteners were scarce, and carrots provided natural sweetness in cakes. The traditional carrot cake recipe became popular during the 19th century, especially in the UK. Over time, it evolved with the addition of spices, fruits, and nuts to create a rich, moist cake.

In our household, we gave it a festive twist, combining the carrots with apples, warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, sweet raisins, and tart cranberries to create a cake that truly tastes like Christmas.

The use of almond flour instead of traditional flour keeps it gluten-friendly and provides a dense, nutty texture, while the cream cheese frosting for carrot cake balances it perfectly.

Nutritionally, this homemade carrot cake is rich in fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from the walnuts and almond flour. While it remains indulgent, the carrots and apples add moisture without excess fat.

FAQs

Q: Why was carrot cake invented?

A: Carrot cake originated as a way to sweeten cakes during sugar shortages, using carrots for their natural sugar content.

Q: Can carrot cake be left out?

A: No, carrot cake with cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated to avoid spoilage.

Q: Can carrot cake be frozen?

A: Yes, you can freeze both the unfrosted cake layers and fully frosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Q: How was carrot cake invented?

A: Carrot cakes evolved from medieval carrot puddings, which combined carrots, flour, and spices as a sweet dessert.

Q: Who invented carrot cake?

A: Carrot cake's exact origins are unclear, but it became widely popular in Europe during the 19th century.

Q: What does carrot cake taste like?

A: A moist carrot cake recipe has a spiced, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor with bursts of fruit and a creamy frosting. This specific one tastes like Christmas

Conclusion

I hope you'll try this small carrot cake recipe that brings the holiday spirit straight to your table. When you do, tag us and share your creation!

The full video for this recipe is available on YouTube, so don't forget to check it out, like, and subscribe.

Enjoy your festive baking!

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