Heart-Healthy Carrot Cake Recipe
Looking for a nutritious snack that doesn’t compromise on taste? The Heart-Healthy Carrot Cake is the perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors. Made with 100% whole wheat flour, extra virgin olive oil, and natural cane sugar, this cake offers a nourishing treat that’s as good for your heart as it is for your taste buds.
Olive oil, celebrated for its heart-healthy fats, is paired with nutrient-rich grated carrots and crunchy cashew nuts. The result? A moist, tender cake that’s a perfect breakfast option or an afternoon snack. Serve it alongside a glass of milk or a refreshing cup of green tea, and you’ve got a balanced, satisfying dish that everyone in the family will love.
This recipe is ideal for those following an eggetarian diet and is simple enough for anyone to prepare. So, let’s get started on this wholesome, heart-friendly delight!
Ingredients Table
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Whole Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Carrot (Gajjar), finely grated | 1/2 cup |
| Cashew Nuts, finely chopped | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking pan with a little butter and dust it with flour. Set aside.
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the eggs until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the extra virgin olive oil, continuing to beat until it blends well. Next, add the vanilla extract and sugar, and beat until all the ingredients are incorporated.
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Combine Everything Together: Gradually add the flour and baking powder mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until combined. Add the finely grated carrots and chopped cashew nuts, and stir until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve this heart-healthy carrot cake warm or at room temperature.
This cake makes an excellent choice for breakfast or an evening snack. Pair it with a tall glass of milk for an energy-packed start to your day, or enjoy it with a soothing cup of green tea for a perfect snack that is as good for your heart as it is for your taste buds.
Nutritional Benefits
- Whole Wheat Flour: A great source of dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and maintains a healthy weight. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
- Olive Oil: Known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil helps lower bad cholesterol levels and supports cardiovascular health.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin A, carrots are beneficial for vision, skin health, and overall well-being.
- Cashews: High in heart-healthy fats and rich in antioxidants, cashews help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Allergen Information
- Contains Eggs and Nuts (Cashews)
- May contain traces of gluten due to the use of whole wheat flour.
Dietary Preferences
- Eggetarian: Suitable for individuals who consume eggs but avoid other animal products.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat or poultry, making it ideal for vegetarians.
- Nut-Friendly (with Cashews): Those with a cashew allergy should avoid this recipe or substitute with other nuts like almonds.
Tips for Customization
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute whole wheat flour with gluten-free flour to make this cake suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Lower Sugar Option: If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake, you can substitute cane sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Adjust the quantities according to taste.
- Add Spices: For a warm, spiced flavor, try adding ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the batter. These spices pair beautifully with the carrot base.
Conclusion
This Heart-Healthy Carrot Cake is more than just a treat – it’s a nourishing snack that brings together wholesome ingredients and great taste. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or any time you crave a heart-friendly dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you enjoy it with a glass of milk or a cup of tea, this cake offers both health benefits and indulgence in every bite.
If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make, and heart-healthy recipe, this carrot cake is the way to go. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet and savor the goodness of real, wholesome ingredients.
