Spiced Walnut Carrot Cake with Citrus Glaze

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 12
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If you're in the mood for a classic dessert with a twist, this Spiced Walnut Carrot Cake with Citrus Glaze is your answer. It's a delightful combination of earthy carrots, warm spices, and a zesty orange glaze that elevates this cake to a whole new level. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy evening treat!

Ingredients for Spiced Walnut Carrot Cake with Citrus Glaze

All-purpose flour forms the base of the cake, providing structure. Granulated sugar and brown sugar work together to add sweetness and moisture, with the brown sugar also contributing a slight molasses flavor. Vegetable oil keeps the cake moist without overpowering the other flavors. Eggs act as a binding agent, helping the cake hold together. Grated carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, while chopped walnuts provide a pleasant crunch. Crushed pineapple introduces a hint of tropical sweetness and extra moisture. A splash of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring warmth and spice. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. Baking powder and baking soda ensure the cake rises beautifully. For the glaze, orange zest and powdered sugar combine with fresh orange juice to create a bright, citrusy topping.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra flavor boost, toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter.
  • If your carrots are particularly juicy, squeeze out some of the moisture before adding them to the batter to prevent the cake from becoming too wet.
  • Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a more decadent treat, serve it with a side of caramel sauce drizzled over the top. It also makes for a delightful brunch dessert, paired with a cup of Earl Grey tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake stays moist for a couple of days. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?
Sure! Pecans or almonds would be great alternatives if you prefer them over walnuts.

Spiced Walnut Carrot Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's warming up, grease a 9x13 inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. This helps to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.

In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. You want to avoid over-mixing here to keep the cake tender.

Fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and crushed pineapple. Make sure everything is evenly distributed in the batter, as this ensures each slice has a bit of everything.

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Slide the pan into the oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with the orange juice and zest in a small bowl until smooth. This citrus glaze will add a bright finish to your cake.

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Then, drizzle the citrus glaze over the top, allowing it to set before slicing and serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of spices and sweetness that adds depth of flavor.
  • Moist and tender texture thanks to grated carrots and pineapple.
  • Citrus glaze provides a refreshing zing without overwhelming the senses.
  • Easy to make and doesn't require fancy equipment.
  • Great way to use up leftover carrots and pantry staples.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 cups grated carrots
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
Zest of 1 orange for glaze
1 cup powdered sugar for glaze
3 tbsp fresh orange juice for glaze

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix into the dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and crushed pineapple until evenly distributed.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl until smooth.
8. Once the cake is baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before drizzling the citrus glaze over the top.
9. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

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