Description
Delia Smith’s Carrot Cake is a moist and spiced cake made with grated carrots, adding natural sweetness and a soft texture. The recipe includes ingredients like walnuts and cinnamon, giving it a nutty and aromatic flavor. It’s typically topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Carrots – 200g, finely grated, for moisture and sweetness.
- Plain flour – 175g, the base of the batter.
- Caster sugar – 175g, adds sweetness.
- Vegetable oil – 175ml, keeps the cake moist.
- Eggs – 2 large, for binding the ingredients.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon, helps the cake rise.
- Bicarbonate of soda – 1 teaspoon, for an airy texture.
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon, adds warmth and spice.
- Walnuts – 50g, chopped, for a nutty crunch (optional).
For the Frosting:
- Cream cheese – 200g, softened, creates a creamy topping.
- Unsalted butter – 50g, softened, adds richness.
- Icing sugar – 100g, for sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tin
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease and line an 8-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the caster sugar and chopped walnuts (if using).
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Add the grated carrots to the wet mixture and mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and creamy.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
- Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cooled cake.
- Decorate with extra chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.