Parsnip Cake: A Delectable Winter Dessert
Overview
Embracing the flavors of winter vegetables in a delightful dessert, this Parsnip Cake is a unique twist on the traditional carrot cake, boasting a moist texture and a delightful blend of vanilla and butterscotch flavors that melt in your mouth. This cake not only showcases the often-overlooked parsnip but also incorporates nutritious fruits, making it a kid-friendly option that even picky eaters will enjoy. The ease of preparation combined with its comforting taste makes this dessert a perfect addition to any gathering or simply a cozy evening at home.
Cooking Information
| Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 10 minutes | 10 servings | 1 cake |
Description
A charming adaptation of carrot cake, this Parsnip Cake delivers a rich, buttery flavor with subtle hints of vanilla, perfectly complemented by the natural sweetness of parsnips and cranberries. It’s an effortless recipe that not only makes good use of winter vegetables but also serves as an ideal dessert for all ages.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 412 |
| Total Fat | 24.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 55.8 mg |
| Sodium | 185.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 46.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g |
| Sugars | 27.1 g |
| Protein | 4.7 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 3 |
| Canola oil | 1 cup |
| Caster sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla essence | 1 teaspoon |
| Self-raising flour | 3/4 cup |
| Whole wheat flour | 3/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Mixed spice | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground ginger | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Parsnips (grated) | 1 cup |
| Cranberries (dried) | 3/4 cup |
| Sultanas (dried grapes) | 1/2 cup |
Instructions
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: Begin by sifting the self-raising flour, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, mixed spice, ground ginger, and baking powder into a large mixing bowl. This not only ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed but also introduces air into the flour, resulting in a lighter cake.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the caster sugar, eggs, canola oil, and vanilla essence. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, ensuring that the sugar is dissolved and the eggs are fully incorporated.
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Incorporate the Vegetables and Fruits: To the egg mixture, add the grated parsnips, dried cranberries, and sultanas, stirring gently to combine. This step allows the sweetness of the fruits and the earthiness of the parsnips to meld beautifully with the wet ingredients.
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Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Carefully fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a wooden spoon. It’s essential to mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
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Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake tin well to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for approximately 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Ice the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, ice with a luscious cream cheese icing for a delightful finish, adding a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the cake’s flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Parsnip Cake as a delightful dessert for family gatherings or special occasions, where its unique flavor and moist texture will surely impress. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee, making it versatile for any time of day.
Conclusion
With its impressive taste and simple preparation, this Parsnip Cake is a must-try for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their desserts. Its adaptability and wonderful flavor profile make it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned kitchen enthusiasts alike, ensuring that you can bring a bit of warmth and sweetness to your table during the colder months. Enjoy this delightful treat and impress your family and friends with your culinary creativity!
