Honey Orange Carrot Cake

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 35 min
🍽 Serves: 12
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This Honey Orange Carrot Cake is a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, infused with citrusy notes and sweetened with honey. Perfect for any gathering or a simple family dessert, it's moist, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweet.

Ingredients for Honey Orange Carrot Cake

All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cake. Using both baking powder and baking soda ensures the cake rises well and has a light texture. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors. Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and spice, complementing the sweetness.

Butter gives the cake a rich flavor. Honey not only sweetens but adds moisture, while granulated sugar balances it out. Eggs are essential for binding and adding richness. Vanilla extract and orange zest bring a fragrant, fresh note.

Grated carrots are the star ingredient, adding natural sweetness and moisture. Crushed pineapple further moistens the cake and pairs well with the carrots. Chopped walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Finally, orange juice adds a subtle citrus tang that brightens the overall flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
  • Grate your own carrots for the best texture and moisture.
  • Let the cake cool before cutting to maintain its structure.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an elegant touch, drizzle a simple orange glaze (mix powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice) over the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter result.
Can I omit the walnuts?
Absolutely, especially if you have a nut allergy or preference. The cake will still be delicious!

Honey Orange Carrot Cake Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.

In a bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps distribute the leavening agents and spices uniformly.

In another bowl, cream the softened butter with honey and sugar until the mixture turns creamy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, making the cake light. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated.

Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest to bring out that citrusy aroma. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with orange juice. Mixing until just combined will prevent overworking the batter.

Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts. This step ensures that the batter remains airy while evenly distributing the mix-ins. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Slide it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The honey and orange zest add a unique twist to traditional carrot cake flavors.
  • The combination of carrots, pineapple, and walnuts gives it a delightful texture.
  • Quick to prepare and perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup crushed canned pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup orange juice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat the butter, honey, and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with orange juice, until just combined.
6. Fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool completely before serving.

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