Carrot and Orange Loaf Cake Recipe
Embrace the delightful fusion of fresh carrots and zesty oranges with this moist and flavorful Carrot and Orange Loaf Cake, perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet treat any time of the day. With a warm, inviting aroma wafting from the oven, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face and a burst of flavor to your palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-3/4 cups |
| Sunflower Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Whole Eggs | 2 |
| Carrots (Gajjar) – grated | 2 cups |
| Orange Zest (Rind) | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh Orange Juice | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Raisins | 1/4 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 4g |
Preparation Steps
To create this delectable Carrot and Orange Loaf Cake, begin by preheating your oven to a warm 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). To prepare your loaf tin, either lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper, ensuring it’s ready for the delightful batter that will soon take shape.
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Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together gently and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, crack the eggs and pour in the sunflower oil. Using a hand whisk, beat the mixture until it’s well combined and slightly frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Incorporate Flavor: To the egg mixture, add the freshly grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, raisins, and the grated carrots. Stir this vibrant mixture until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a beautifully colorful batter.
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Combine Ingredients: Carefully fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. It’s crucial to avoid overmixing at this stage, as this will help to keep your loaf cake light and fluffy.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into your loaf tin(s), smoothing the top with a spatula if necessary. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on the size of the tins you are using, so keep a close eye on the cake as it bakes.
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Cooling: Once baked to perfection, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to turn out. Afterward, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Slice this delicious Carrot and Orange Loaf Cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or share it with friends at your next gathering—it’s sure to impress!
Conclusion
This Carrot and Orange Loaf Cake recipe not only brings a burst of citrusy goodness to the classic loaf cake but also offers a wholesome treat that celebrates the delightful flavors of fresh ingredients. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a sweet moment, each slice promises to be a delightful experience for you and your loved ones. Happy baking!
