Quick and Delicious Carrot and Walnut Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• • Eggs: 3 large
  • Sugar: 150 g (about 3/4 cup)
  • Vegetable Oil: 80 ml (about 1/3 cup)

• • Flour: 180 g (about 1 1/2 cups) – All-purpose or 000 flour
  • Orange Zest: From 1 orange
  • Grated Carrot: 200 g (about 2 medium carrots)

• • Walnuts: 100 g (about 1/2 cup), chopped
  • Salt: A pinch
  • Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons

• • Spice Mix for Cake: 1/2 teaspoon (includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, vanilla, and anise)
  • Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Orange Juice: 1 tablespoon

Directions:

• • Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • Mix the Wet Ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the vegetable oil while continuing to whisk, ensuring it is fully incorporated.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, spice mix, and cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

• • Add Flavor and Texture:
    Add the grated carrot, orange zest, and orange juice to the batter. Stir gently to combine. Fold in the chopped walnuts to add crunch and flavor.
  • Bake the Cake:
    Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Serve:
    Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or top with cream cheese frosting. Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
  • For added flavor, top with a cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of honey.

Cooking Tips:

• • Grate Carrots Finely: Use the fine side of a box grater to grate the carrots for a smoother texture.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and a lighter cake.
  • Customize the Spice Mix: Adjust spices to your liking. Add more cinnamon for warmth or vanilla for sweetness.

• Citrus Twist: Add more orange zest or use lemon zest for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Carrots: High in beta-carotene, converted to vitamin A for healthy vision and immune function.
  • Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, promoting heart health.

• Oranges: Packed with vitamin C, supporting immune health and skin care.
• Spices: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Dietary Information:

• • Calories: Approximately 280-320 per slice

• • Protein: 4-5 grams per slice
  • Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams per slice
  • Fats: 15-18 grams per slice

• • Fiber: 2-3 grams per slice
  • Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour

Nutritional Facts (Per Slice):

• • Calories: 300
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g

• • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g

• • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 20g
  • Protein: 4g

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slices before serving for better flavor.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.