Description
A moist, warmly spiced carrot cake that requires no mixer and uses simple pantry staples. Perfect for a quick dessert fix or a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 5-6 medium carrots)
- Optional: 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (replace part of the oil)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In another bowl, beat together brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Fold in grated carrots, and if using, applesauce, nuts, and raisins.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Optional: Frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled.
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Store the cake at room temperature for 2–3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze slices for up to 1 month. Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Garnish with crushed walnuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or orange zest curls.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg