Carrot, Apple, and Orange Cake Recipe
Introduction
This moist and flavorful Carrot, Apple, and Orange Cake combines the natural sweetness of fruits and the earthy richness of carrots to create a truly delightful dessert. Perfect for any occasion, this cake strikes a balance between indulgence and a hint of healthfulness, thanks to its vitamin-packed ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer taste)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar
- Fruits & Vegetables:
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and grated (about 1/2 cup)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup raisins
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan or a bundt pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and brown sugar, whisking until the mixture is light and creamy.
- Slowly incorporate the oil, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until smooth.
4. Add Fruits and Vegetables
- Fold in the grated carrots and apple. Mix gently to ensure they are evenly distributed.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.
- If using walnuts, pecans, or raisins, fold them in at this stage.
6. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting (Optional)
While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assembly
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top (and sides, if desired).
- Garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest, chopped nuts, or shredded carrots for a decorative touch.
Tips for Success
- Juicy Oranges: Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor. Store-bought juice can work in a pinch but may lack the zesty aroma.
- Apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith add a subtle tang, while sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala enhance the cake’s natural sweetness.
- Grating: Finely grate the carrots and apple to ensure they meld seamlessly into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this cake slightly chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor.
- Pair it with a cup of tea, coffee, or freshly squeezed orange juice for a refreshing experience.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tbsp seeds + 3 tbsp water per egg). Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter for the frosting.
This Carrot, Apple, and Orange Cake is a crowd-pleaser with its perfect balance of sweetness, citrusy zest, and warmth from the spices. Whether topped with a luscious frosting or enjoyed plain, this cake is sure to delight.
