Carrot and Raisin Cake

This delightful carrot and raisin cake offers a fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect for any occasion. With its moist and tender texture, this cake is a favorite among those who appreciate the natural sweetness of carrots combined with the juicy taste of raisins. The tangy sour cream adds a delightful richness, while a hint of cloves and cinnamon provides a warm, comforting aroma. This cake not only tantalizes your taste buds but also gives you the satisfaction of a homemade, wholesome dessert. Whether you're serving it as a tea-time treat or a special dessert, it's sure to impress. Easy to prepare, it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Even novice bakers will find success with this straightforward recipe. Enjoy the heartwarming fragrance that fills your home as this cake bakes to perfection!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup grated carrots
• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped raisins
• 1 egg

Spices

• 1 pinch ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Cinnamon to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature to ensure your cake bakes correctly.
2. Prepare your baking tin by greasing it with butter to prevent the cake from sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking soda.
4. Add a pinch of ground cloves and a dash of cinnamon to infuse the batter with warm spices.
5. Mix in the grated carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.
6. Add the chopped raisins to the mixture for a sweet, chewy texture.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until it's well beaten.
8. Combine the egg with the sour cream, stirring until smooth.
9. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine.
10. Ensure the batter is smooth, with no lumps remaining.
11. Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
12. Place the tin in the preheated oven, baking for around 40 minutes, though it might need a few minutes longer.
13. Check the cake is done by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
14. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes.
15. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
16. To add a professional touch, dust the top with a bit of powdered sugar or cinnamon.
17. Slice and serve your cake, enjoying both its aroma and taste.
18. Store leftover cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
19. Share this delicious treat with family and friends, savoring each bite!

Tips

• For a fluffier cake, sift the flour before incorporating it into the mixture.
• If you prefer a more intense spice flavor, adjust the quantity of cinnamon and cloves to your taste.
• Substitute the raisins with chopped nuts or dried fruits for diversity.

Nutritions

• Calories: 300 per slice
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 9g
• Carbs: 52g

Variations

• For a gluten-free version, use almond or coconut flour in place of regular flour.
• Make it dairy-free by using a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Serve with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.

Best Places

• Elephant Grounds - Known for their unique desserts and cozy atmosphere. Location: 11-15 Swatow St, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
• Cake Spade - Famous for their creative cake flavors and charming setting. Location: 83 Tanjong Pagar Rd, Singapore.
• The Cheesecake Factory - Offers a wide variety of cakes, including classic carrot cake. Location: 364 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, USA.
• Ladurée - Known for its elegant desserts and luxurious ambiance. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Harbs - Offers light and fluffy cakes made with fresh ingredients. Location: Roppongi Hills, 6-4-1 Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan.
• Sweet Lady Jane Bakery - Popular for their high-quality cakes made with fresh ingredients. Location: 8360 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
• Cakes & Co. - Known for homemade style cakes and welcoming vibe. Location: 6 Rue de l'Oratoire, Geneva, Switzerland.
• High Society - Offers both traditional and unique cake flavors, set in a luxurious environment. Location: Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave, Singapore.
• Scaturchio - Offers a wide variety of traditional and modern cakes. Location: Piazza S. Domenico Maggiore, Napoli, Italy.
• Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki - Known for its fusion of French and Japanese dessert styles. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.