The Best Carrot Cake Recipe UK: A Moist and Delicious Classic

Introduction

Carrot cake is a timeless favorite in the UK, loved for its rich, moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a treat, a well-made carrot cake is hard to beat. This guide presents the best carrot cake recipe tailored to UK bakers, with ingredients and tips to ensure your cake is irresistibly moist and full of flavor. Topped with creamy frosting, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients for the Best Carrot Cake

For the Cake:

300g carrots, grated
200g plain flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
200g soft light brown sugar
150ml sunflower oil
3 large eggs
100g raisins or sultanas (optional)
100g chopped walnuts (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

200g full-fat cream cheese
50g unsalted butter, softened
200g icing sugar, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Method: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/Gas Mark 4.
Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake tins with baking parchment.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the brown sugar, sunflower oil, and eggs until well combined.
Stir in the grated carrots, vanilla extract, and any optional ingredients like raisins or walnuts.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the icing sugar and beat until fully combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest, if using.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.

Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake

Use Fresh Carrots: Freshly grated carrots provide the best flavor and moisture.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined.
Enhance Flavor: Add orange zest, crushed pineapple, or a pinch of ground cloves for extra depth.
Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before spreading.
Decorate with Style: Garnish with chopped walnuts, grated carrot, or a light dusting of cinnamon for a beautiful finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Cake

1. Can I make carrot cake in advance?

Yes, carrot cake stays moist and can be made 1-2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

2. Can I freeze carrot cake?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in cling film and foil.

3. Can I use self-raising flour instead of plain flour?

It’s best to use plain flour and add baking powder to control the rise and texture.

4. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the cream cheese and butter in the frosting with dairy-free alternatives.

5. What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can use pecans, almonds, or omit the nuts entirely.

6. Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes, this recipe makes approximately 18 cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to 18-20 minutes.

7. How do I prevent the cake from being too dry?

Ensure you don’t overbake the cake and measure ingredients accurately.

8. Can I use oil other than sunflower oil?

Yes, vegetable oil or light olive oil are good substitutes.

9. Is carrot cake suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

10. What’s the best way to store carrot cake?

Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

This carrot cake recipe is a surefire winner, delivering a moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced dessert that’s ideal for any occasion. With its simple steps and versatile options, it’s a delight to bake and share with family and friends. Follow this guide to create the best carrot cake in the UK, and enjoy every delicious bite!