Glazed Carrot Snack Cake Recipe

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Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped, toasted walnuts, plus more for garnish

Carrot Glaze

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup carrot juice (such as Lakewood Organic)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with baking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper and lightly spray the paper. Set aside.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground ginger, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and baking soda using an electric mixer on high speed. Beat until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and slightly increased in volume, approximately 3 minutes.

Step 3: Reduce the mixer speed to medium and gradually add the melted butter, beating until combined, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add the grated carrots and toasted walnuts, folding them into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan. Spread it into an even layer using a small offset spatula.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a wooden pick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully release it from the pan, remove the parchment paper, and allow it to cool completely on the wire rack (about 1.5 hours).

Step 8: While the cake is cooling, prepare the carrot glaze. In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, carrot juice, heavy cream, and kosher salt. Cook over medium-high heat, occasionally swirling the pan, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 12 to 15 minutes.

Step 9: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cubed butter until fully combined. Let the glaze cool undisturbed for 15 minutes.

Step 10: Once the cake is completely cool, place it on a serving plate. Stir the glaze one more time and then pour it over the center of the cake, spreading it gently to the edges with a small offset spatula.

Step 11: Garnish the cake with additional chopped toasted walnuts and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	660
Total Fat	42g
Saturated Fat	21g
Cholesterol	155mg
Sodium	457mg
Total Carbohydrate	67g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	44g
Protein	8g
Vitamin C	4mg
Calcium	141mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	320mg

Recipe by Diana Moutsopoulos

History and Origins of Carrot Cake

Carrot cake has been a beloved dessert for centuries, with origins that trace back to medieval Europe. The early versions of carrot cake were more akin to pudding than cake, often containing sweetened carrots mixed with breadcrumbs. These cakes were created using ingredients that were easily accessible and affordable, particularly during times of scarcity. Carrots, which were sweet and nutritious, became an ideal substitute for sugar in times when refined sugar was a luxury. However, the modern form of carrot cake, as we know it todaywith a moist, spiced batter, and cream cheese frostinggained popularity in the United States in the 1960s. The Glazed Carrot Snack Cake, with its sticky carrot juice glaze, is a contemporary variation that offers a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Regional Variations

The carrot cake is widely popular across the world, but regional variations do exist. In the United States, it is common to find carrot cakes enriched with ingredients such as walnuts, pecans, and sometimes coconut, along with a generous cream cheese frosting. The Glazed Carrot Snack Cake, however, uses a delightful carrot juice glaze, which brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while offering a more refreshing alternative to the heavier frostings typically seen in traditional carrot cakes. This glaze gives the cake a subtle sweetness and a moist texture that enhances its flavor.

What Makes It Unique?

While carrot cake is a popular dessert, the Glazed Carrot Snack Cake stands out due to its use of carrot juice in the glaze. The glaze is cooked to a thick consistency and poured over the cake, adding a layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the nutty, spiced flavor of the cake. Another key feature that distinguishes this recipe from other carrot cakes is the use of toasted walnuts, which contribute an additional layer of flavor and crunch. The combination of the spiced cake and the sticky, carrot-based glaze creates a cake that is both comforting and unique.

Where is it Typically Served?

The Glazed Carrot Snack Cake is often served at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or casual get-togethers. Its versatile nature makes it a great choice for both formal events and casual afternoons with friends. Because of its rich flavor profile and satisfying texture, it is perfect for serving with a cup of tea or coffee. This cake can also be a delightful addition to a brunch spread, offering a comforting yet slightly sophisticated option for guests to enjoy.

Interesting Facts About Carrot Cake

• Carrots were historically used in desserts long before they became a popular ingredient in savory dishes. During times of food rationing, the naturally sweet flavor of carrots made them an ideal ingredient for cakes and pies.
• The concept of a carrot cake became more popular in the 20th century due to the rise of industrialized baking. Recipes for carrot cakes, like the one for this Glazed Carrot Snack Cake, were developed to be both delicious and easy to make using readily available ingredients.
• Carrot cake is often seen as a healthier dessert choice, with the inclusion of carrots providing a good source of beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin A. However, the richness of the glaze and frosting can make it quite indulgent!
• While most carrot cakes are known for their cream cheese frosting, the use of carrot juice in this cakes glaze offers a lighter, less tangy option that allows the natural sweetness of the carrots to shine through.

FAQ about Glazed Carrot Snack Cake Recipe