Carrot Date Spice Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of carrots and dates creates natural sweetness and moistness.
• Warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg make it perfect for autumn and winter.
• Simple to prepare with everyday pantry ingredients.
• Optionally topped with a light vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.
• Can be enjoyed plain, glazed, or with a dollop of cream.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cake:
200g (1½ cups) all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
100g (½ cup) packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
200g (1 cup) finely grated carrots
150g (1 cup) chopped pitted dates
60ml (¼ cup) coconut milk or whole milk
60g (¼ cup) chopped walnuts (optional)

Optional Glaze:
100g (¾ cup) powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk or cream
½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the grated carrots and chopped dates.
6. Add the dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until just combined.
7. Fold in walnuts if using.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. If using the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Servings and timing

Serves 8–10 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling and optional glazing: 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and coconut milk, plus flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water).
• Extra fruit: Add chopped dried apricots or raisins for more sweetness.
• Cream cheese frosting: Swap the glaze for tangy cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert.
• Spice boost: Increase cinnamon and ginger for a bolder flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the cake (unglazed) for up to 2 months thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are recommended for better moisture and texture.

2. Can I replace dates with raisins?

Yes raisins, figs, or chopped dried apricots work well as substitutes.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in equal amounts.

4. How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

5. Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, substitute with an equal amount of vegetable or coconut oil for a slightly different texture.

6. Do I have to use the glaze?

No, the cake is delicious on its own or with powdered sugar dusting.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes bake in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes.

8. Why is coconut milk used?

It adds richness and a subtle flavor, but whole milk works equally well.

9. How fine should I chop the dates?

Finely chop them so they distribute evenly throughout the batter.

10. Can I add pineapple like in carrot cake?

Yes drain well and reduce the milk slightly to prevent excess moisture.

Conclusion

This Carrot Date Spice Cake blends sweet, moist fruit with aromatic spices in a simple yet satisfying dessert. Whether you serve it plain, glazed, or frosted, it’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing.

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