Description
Jamie Oliver’s Carrot and Ginger Cake is a moist, spiced cake made with grated carrots, fresh ginger, and a hint of cinnamon. The cake has a lovely texture and is topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting that complements the sweetness of the carrots and the warmth of the ginger.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 250g (2 cups) All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake.
- 200g (1 cup) Caster Sugar: Sweetens the cake.
- 1 tsp Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise.
- 1/2 tsp Baking Soda: Adds lift and lightness.
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger: Complements the fresh ginger.
- 1/2 tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 3 Large Eggs: Adds structure and moisture.
- 150ml (2/3 cup) Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 300g (3 medium) Grated Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Grated Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy kick.
- 100g (1/2 cup) Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): Adds crunch and texture.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 200g (1 cup) Cream Cheese (softened): Creates a smooth and tangy frosting.
- 100g (1/2 cup) Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds richness to the frosting.
- 250g (2 cups) Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
Instructions
Step 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, caster sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Step 3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, gently mixing until just combined.
Step 5. Fold in Carrots and Ginger
Add the grated carrots and fresh grated ginger to the batter. Fold gently until evenly distributed. Add the chopped walnuts or pecans if desired.
Step 6. Pour into the Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
Step 7. Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 9. Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Smooth with a spatula and add a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts on top if desired.
Step 10. Slice and Serve
Cut the cake into squares and enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee!