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Mary Berry Banana and Carrot Cake

Mary Berry Banana and Carrot Cake
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Mary Berry’s Banana and Carrot Cake blend the flavors of ripe bananas and freshly grated carrots into a moist, spiced cake. This cake uses simple ingredients and is topped with a creamy frosting that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a treat with a mix of fruits and vegetables baked into every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

  • 200g self-raising flour – Provides the structure and helps the cake rise.
  • 1 tsp baking powder – Adds extra lift to the cake.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  • 100g butter (softened) – Adds moisture and richness.
  • 150g light brown sugar – Sweetens the cake with a subtle caramel flavor.
  • 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
  • 2 ripe bananas (mashed) – Adds moisture, sweetness, and soft texture.
  • 100g carrots (grated) – Adds natural sweetness, color, and moisture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cake.
  • 50g walnuts or pecans (chopped, optional) – Adds crunch and extra flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)

 

  • 100g cream cheese (softened) – Adds a creamy, tangy element.
  • 50g unsalted butter (softened) – Gives the frosting a smooth, spreadable texture.
  • 200g icing sugar – Sweetens the frosting.
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the frosting.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin or loaf tin and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and light brown sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Bananas

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Carrots and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the grated carrots, then add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Step 6: Pour into the Tin and Smooth the Top

Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and the cake should feel springy to the touch.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

 

Slice and serve the cake as is, or enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-banana-and-carrot-cake/