Are you craving a moist, delicious cake that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Bolo de Cenoura recipe – a beloved Brazilian carrot cake – is your answer. Forget complicated baking techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this recipe delivers incredible flavor and texture with minimal fuss. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dessert, a special occasion treat, or simply satisfying a sudden sweet craving. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Making the Cake Batter: Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Thoroughly combining the dry ingredients ensures even baking and prevents pockets of uncooked flour.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for optimal emulsification with the oil and sugar.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be careful not to mix beyond the point of incorporation.
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Gently fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using). This ensures the carrots are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
Baking the Bolo de Cenoura: Oven Time and Tips
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
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Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. Allowing the cake to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting: Sweet and Creamy Perfection
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While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Adding the powdered sugar gradually prevents it from clumping.
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Stir in the vanilla extract.
Frosting and Serving: The Final Touches
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the cream cheese frosting.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Bolo de Cenoura
- For a richer flavor: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar, or add a tablespoon of molasses.
- Add some spice: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger.
- Make it healthier: Reduce the sugar by ¼ cup, and use whole wheat flour in place of half of the all-purpose flour.
- Get creative with add-ins: Try adding raisins, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This Bolo de Cenoura recipe is a delightful blend of moist cake and creamy frosting. It’s a perfect example of how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this delicious treat!