A moist and flavorful cake combining the sweetness of carrots with the nutty texture of oatmeal. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a healthy-ish dessert.
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Frosting (Optional):
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon.
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or a 9 inch springform pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the grated carrots, raisins, and nuts if using.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting (if using).
- Make the Frosting (Optional):
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon.
- Beat on high speed until light and fluffy.
- Frost and Serve:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, frost it with the cream cheese frosting.
- Slice and serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a more intense carrot flavor, use finely grated carrots.
- Add other spices like cloves or allspice for a richer flavor.
- Substitute applesauce for some of the oil for a lighter cake.
- For a different texture, try using steel cut oats.
- Add a lemon zest to the frosting for a brighter flavor.
- Decorate with extra nuts or carrot shavings.
Enjoy your delicious Carrot & Oatmeal Cake!