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Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

When it comes to baking a cake that perfectly marries ease and indulgence, few can rival the charm of a super moist carrot sheet cake, crowned with a velvety cream cheese frosting. This delightful baked good is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent way to incorporate some vegetables into your dessert – making it a guilt-free treat for everyone.

The Origins of Carrot Cake

Carrot cake has a rich history, dating back to medieval times, when ingredients such as carrots were used as a sweetener in desserts due to the scarcity of sugar. This humble vegetable was embraced in the culinary traditions of numerous countries, eventually evolving into the luscious cake we savour today. The moistness of the cake, combined with the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a comforting dessert that can be enjoyed any time of year.

Key Ingredients

To achieve the best results, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients:

• Carrots: Fresh, finely grated carrots are the star of the show. They not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the cake’s splendid moisture.
• Oil: A combination of vegetable oil and melted butter offers the ideal moisture balance and flavour. Oil helps retain that coveted moistness.
• Sugar: Both caster sugar and light brown sugar add sweetness and depth, enhancing the cake’s flavour profile.
• Eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Flour: A mix of plain flour and baking powder ensures the cake rises beautifully.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger lend warmth and a comforting aroma, elevating the cake to new heights.
• Nuts and Raisins: While optional, chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins can add delightful texture and flavour.

The Cream Cheese Frosting

No carrot cake is complete without its luscious cream cheese frosting. The tangy cream cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious balance. For the best frosting, it’s important to use full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. A dash of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of icing sugar complete the frosting, making it smooth and creamy.

Recipe for Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 300g finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
• 200ml vegetable oil
• 150g light brown sugar
• 150g caster sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 250g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger (optional)
• 100g chopped walnuts (or pecans, optional)
• 100g raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 250g full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 300g icing sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and greasing a 23x33cm (9×13 inch) baking sheet or tray.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, light brown sugar, caster sugar, and eggs until combined.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

4. Add the Carrots and Extras: Gently fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and raisins until just mixed.

5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the tray.

6. Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.

7. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. You can add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an extra touch if desired.

8. Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy one of the most satisfying cakes you’ll ever make!

Conclusion

This super moist carrot sheet cake with cream cheese frosting is an absolute delight that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Its lovely balance of flavours and textures makes it perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon tea to a festive celebration. As you cut into each slice, you not only serve a delicious dessert but also bring a slice of history into your home, continuing the tradition of enjoying this classic cake. Happy baking!

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