Irresistible Abbott Northwestern Station 63 Carrot Cake Recipe
Introduction
This delightful Carrot Cake, originating from the kitchen of Abbott Northwestern Hospital’s Station 63, offers an experience that far exceeds the typical hospital fare. Crafted by a talented nurse, this recipe boasts a unique blend of flavors and textures, ensuring each slice is a moment of pure bliss. The cake is exceptionally moist and flavorful, thanks to the generous use of fresh carrots and crushed pineapple, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings, brunches, or simply a treat for yourself. Notably, this cake tastes even better after spending a night in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Recipe Details
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 50 minutes | 1 hour 20 minutes | 20 | ★★★★★ (5/5 based on 9 reviews) |
Description
This Carrot Cake is an absolute winner, known for its tender crumb and rich flavor profile. By making it a day in advance and refrigerating it after frosting, you elevate its taste to a whole new level. The interplay of sweet and spicy notes from the cinnamon, combined with the luscious cream cheese frosting, creates a truly unforgettable dessert.
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients you will need to create this mouthwatering Carrot Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 2 cups |
| All-purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking Soda | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Grated Carrots | 1 ½ cups |
| Canola Oil | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Crushed Pineapple | 1 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz |
| Butter | ½ cup |
| Powdered Sugar | 1 ½ cups |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
The nutritional values per serving are provided below, ensuring you can enjoy your cake while being mindful of your dietary needs:
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 501.4 |
| Total Fat | 29.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 56.4 mg |
| Sodium | 372.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 57.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 45 g |
| Protein | 4.5 g |
Instructions
The following step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making this delightful Carrot Cake, ensuring your success from start to finish:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s at the perfect temperature to create a beautifully baked cake.
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Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch cake pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove once baked.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the first eight ingredients: sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, grated carrots, canola oil, and eggs. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Add Pineapple and Vanilla: Gently stir in the crushed pineapple and vanilla extract. The pineapple adds moisture and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.
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Pour into Pan: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
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Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be a lovely golden brown.
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Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting when applied.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a food processor, pulse the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
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Add Sugar and Vanilla: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, stirring well until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
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Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, use a spatula to spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
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Chill Before Serving: Cover the frosted cake and place it in the refrigerator for at least a few hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to deepen and improves the overall texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve chilled. Enjoy this heavenly dessert with friends and family, and watch as it quickly becomes a beloved favorite.
Conclusion
This Abbott Northwestern Station 63 Carrot Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor, perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a brunch, a festive gathering, or as a sweet indulgence at home, this cake is sure to impress. Make it a day ahead for optimal taste, and let the flavors mingle beautifully in the fridge. Your taste buds will thank you!
