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.
