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Ottolenghi's carrot cake recipe perfectly balances sweet carrots, warming spices, and creamy frosting. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive dessert that never fails to delight guests with its perfect texture and flavor.
At recent family gatherings, this carrot cake has become the star dessert. Even those skeptical of vegetable-based desserts ask for seconds, won over by its light texture and subtle flavors.
Key Ingredients
* Carrots - Use fresh, organic carrots grated just before mixing. Their natural moisture is essential for texture
* Cream Cheese - Original Philadelphia brand works best for frosting, providing the ideal firm texture
* Spices - Freshness is key. Replace spices every six months to maintain potent flavors
* Coconut - Choose unsweetened, freshly grated if possible. It adds a subtle exotic note
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Base Preparation
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) with fan. This moderate temperature ensures even baking while maintaining moisture. Thoroughly grease the pan.
- 2. Dry Ingredients
- Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda and spices together. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps.
- 3. Wet Mixture
- Beat oil and sugar for one minute in a stand mixer. Add egg and yolk precisely. One additional minute at high speed creates the perfect airy base.
- 4. Combining Components
- Gently fold in grated carrots, nuts and coconut, ensuring even distribution. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients using gentle folding motions.
- 5. Final Touch
- Whip egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Fold in carefully to maintain airiness - this creates the cake's light texture.
Fresh-grated carrots make a significant difference in this recipe. Their natural moisture creates the perfect cake texture, while pre-grated carrots can be too dry.
Frosting Technique
Proper frosting requires precise temperature control. Cream cheese and butter must be at the right temperature - too cold creates lumps, too warm makes the frosting unworkable.
Cooling Period
Always cool the cake completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures proper texture.
Presentation Tips
Decoration adds both visual appeal and textural contrast. Crushed walnuts on top provide a perfect crunch against the cake's moistness.
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Serving Suggestions
This carrot cake reaches peak flavor the day after baking, as the spices and flavors fully develop. Consider making it ahead for special occasions.
This carrot cake represents the perfect blend of traditional baking and modern refinement. Ottolenghi's recipe creates an exceptional dessert that continues to bring joy to special occasions and family gatherings.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- → How should I store carrot cake?
- Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days.
- → Can this cake be frozen?
- Totally! Just freeze it without any frosting for up to 2-3 months.
- → What are some variations for this recipe?
- You can swap out the nuts for almonds or add in some raisins.
- → Is this recipe hard to make?
- Not at all—it's super simple, even for beginners!
- → How many people does this recipe serve?
- You’ll get about 4 servings out of this recipe.