Carrot Cake

Grated Carrot Cake: a sweet, moist delicacy full of flavors, is a perfect choice for culinary indulgence. This simple and quick recipe will turn any occasion into a celebration, and its rich taste and fluffy texture will win the hearts of everyone. Whether you serve it at a party, a gathering with friends, or simply as a weekend dessert, grated carrot cake is always an excellent choice!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 cup oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil for a neutral taste)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 1 cup grated carrot (about 3 large carrots; make sure they are fresh and juicy)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (type 000 flour is ideal for a fine texture)
- 1 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm and aromatic flavor)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting the cake at the end)

The story behind the recipe:

Grated carrot cake has deep roots in culinary traditions, with a history that spans centuries. It is said that carrots have been used in cakes and desserts in various cultures due to their natural sweetness and the moist texture they provide. This cake is not only delicious but also healthy, as carrots are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them an excellent ingredient in desserts.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by grating the carrots finely. Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. It is essential to use fresh carrots, as they will add moisture and flavor to your cake.

2. Mixing oil with sugar: In a large bowl, add the oil and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine the ingredients, mixing until you achieve a smooth and fluffy mixture. This step is crucial as the air incorporated will help the cake rise.

3. Adding grated carrot: Once the oil and sugar are well mixed, add the grated carrot. Continue mixing with the mixer until the carrot is fully incorporated into the mixture.

4. Sifting the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and vanilla sugar. Sifting not only removes lumps but also aerates the flour, contributing to a fluffier cake.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the sifted dry ingredients to the bowl with the carrot and oil mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine everything. Do not overmix; you want to achieve a homogeneous mixture but avoid developing the gluten in the flour, or the cake will be dense.

6. Preparing the baking pan: Line a baking pan with parchment paper. You can use a 20x30 cm pan or a similar size. Ensure that the paper fits well to avoid sticking.

7. Baking: Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface. Preheat the oven to 160-170 degrees Celsius and bake the cake for about 30 minutes. It is important not to overbake it, as it may become crumbly and dry. Test the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it is ready!

8. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When the cake is cool, you can slice it and dust it with powdered sugar. This will add an elegant touch and enhance the sweet flavor.

Practical tip: If you like a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can add an extra ½ teaspoon. You can also add chopped nuts or raisins to the mixture for added texture and flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which helps with eye and skin health. A serving of cake has about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. While it may seem calorie-laden, it is important to remember that the cake also provides valuable nutrients. Enjoy in moderation and savor the flavor!

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen carrots? It is not recommended, as the texture of the cake will be affected. Use fresh carrots for the best results.

2. How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in portions to enjoy later.

3. What are the variations of this recipe? You can experiment by adding dark or white chocolate, nuts, almonds, or even a cream cheese topping for a delicious finish.

Serving suggestions: Grated carrot cake is delicious served plain, but you can accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a decadent dessert. A cup of tea or coffee pairs perfectly as a complementary drink.

Enjoy every bite of this grated carrot cake, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!