Indulge your family with this delightful carrot cake that's perfect for a sweet treat in any lunch box! This recipe is simple, moist, and can be customised easily for those picky eaters. Optional walnuts and sultanas add a lovely crunch and burst of sweetness if desired.

8 SERVINGS  |  1.5 HOURS  |  VEGETARIAN

For the Carrot Cake...

  • 1 2/3 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
  • 1 ½ cups self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp bicarbonate soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts
  • Optional: ½ cup sultanas

For the Cream Cheese Icing...

  • 125g cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup icing sugar

How to make Carrot Cake...

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease and line an 9-inch square cake tin.
  2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and brown sugar until well combined. Add the vegetable oil, mixing thoroughly.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, soda, salt and cinnamon and beat with a mixer until smooth.
  4. Fold: Fold in the grated carrots. If using, stir in the chopped walnuts and sultanas.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
  6. Cheese Icing: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually beat in the icing sugar until fully incorporated and the icing is smooth.
  7. Ice the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top.
  8. Serve or Store: Slice and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for our Bento Masters:
Picky Eaters: For kiddos who might not be fans of walnuts or sultanas, simply leave these out of the main batter and sprinkle them on top as a decorative option.
Presentation: Cut the cake into small, fun shapes or pop them into cupcake liners for easy bento packing.
Creative Touch: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few extra carrot shreds on top of the icing for a professional finish.

    Whether you’re packing a bento box or enjoying a cozy treat at home, this carrot cake is sure to delight every member of your family. Happy baking!