If you're looking for a comforting dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of maple syrup, this Spiced Maple Carrot Cake is just the treat. Packed with hearty ingredients and topped with a creamy maple-infused frosting, it's perfect for any occasion or season.
All-purpose flour provides the structure for our cake. It’s the foundation that holds everything together.
Granulated sugar and light brown sugar offer sweetness, while the brown sugar adds a hint of molasses for depth.
Baking powder and baking soda are our leavening agents, making sure the cake is light and fluffy.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth and complexity to each bite.
Vegetable oil keeps the cake moist without competing with other flavors.
Eggs add richness and help bind the ingredients together.
Maple syrup imparts a subtle sweetness and distinct flavor that sets this cake apart.
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.
Grated carrots provide moisture and a natural sweetness, while also contributing to the cake's texture.
Walnuts offer a satisfying crunch, and raisins add a chewy contrast.
The cream cheese and butter create a smooth, rich frosting that complements the cake’s spiced flavors.
Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting without adding graininess.
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a lighter touch. A cup of chai tea or spiced cider complements the cake’s flavors wonderfully.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking right from the start. While the oven is warming up, grease two 9-inch round cake pans. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pans later on.
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Make sure everything is well-mixed, as this will ensure an even distribution of flavors.
In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until they’re well-blended. Slowly incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Next, fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and raisins. This step ensures that every slice of cake is packed with these delightful inclusions. Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans.
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes cool, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until everything is well blended.
Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and finish by covering the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Slice and serve to enjoy your delightful creation!
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