Carrot Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 3 cups grated carrots (about 3 large carrots)

• 1 cup Go a Little Nuts Walnuts (plus extra for topping)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (adds extra moisture)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven: Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer or whisk until well combined. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Stir in the applesauce.

4. Add the grated carrots: Fold in the grated carrots until they’re evenly distributed in the batter.

5. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Add the walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.

7. Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Prepare the frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, and continue to beat until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat for a couple of minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

9. Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top of the cake for a nice crunch and decoration. Slice and enjoy!

Product Used: