This Carrot Walnut Cake is a classic, combining warm spices, crunchy walnuts, and sweet carrots for a moist and flavorful dessert. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special event, or just because!
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Super Moist & Fluffy – The combination of eggs, oil, and milk ensures a soft and tender crumb.
✔ Rich & Nutty – Walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while carrots bring natural sweetness.
✔ Quick & Easy – Just 15 minutes of prep, and the oven does the rest!
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Enjoy it plain, with frosting, or as a coffee cake.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Cake Ingredients:
4 eggs
1 ½ cups granulated sugar (225g)
1 cup milk (200ml)
1 cup vegetable oil (200ml)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (300g)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Carrot Walnut Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and creamy.
Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
Sift in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting or serving.
Step 3: (Optional) Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fluffy.
Spread evenly over the cooled cake.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
✔ Use Fresh Carrots – Freshly grated carrots provide the best moisture and sweetness.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
✔ Toast the Walnuts – For extra flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter.
✔ Make It Healthier – Substitute ½ cup of sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy plain with coffee or tea for a simple treat.
Add cream cheese frosting for an indulgent dessert.
Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
Storage & Freezing
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days (especially if frosted).
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Carrot Walnut Cake is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you enjoy it plain, frosted, or with a cup of coffee, it’s a timeless classic that’s sure to impress!
Try it today and indulge in a slice of homemade goodness! ❤️