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...
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease and line an 9-inch square cake tin.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and brown sugar until well combined. Add the vegetable oil, mixing thoroughly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, soda, salt and cinnamon and beat with a mixer until smooth.
- Fold: Fold in the grated carrots. If using, stir in the chopped walnuts and sultanas.
- 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.
- 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.
- Ice the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top.
- 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!
