Family Favorite Carrot Cake
This Family Favorite Carrot Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of carrots and raisins with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it's a delightful treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The addition of walnuts adds a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- Cover raisins with boiling water; let stand 5 minutes.
- Drain the raisins.
- Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat sugar, Crisco, and eggs until fluffy.
- Add the flour mixture and milk; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the carrots, raisins, and walnuts.
- Spread the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round layer cake pans.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a wooden toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely.
- Frost with Lemon Cream Cheese frosting.
- Store covered in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, you can substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer, try using chopped pecans instead of walnuts for a different flavor profile. Ensure the carrots are finely shredded for even distribution, and let the raisins soak longer if you desire a plumper texture.
Serving Suggestions
This carrot cake pairs beautifully with Lemon Cream Cheese frosting, enhancing its sweetness and flavor. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It's also perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat with coffee during afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover carrot cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through. This keeps the cake moist and delicious without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family Favorite Carrot Cake contains roughly 366 calories, with 8g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (117% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (106% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1107mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this carrot cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to frost when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Crisco?
You can substitute Crisco with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using coconut oil, which will add a subtle flavor to the cake.
Is there a gluten-free option for this carrot cake?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the cake's structure and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).