Best Jamaican carrot cake Recipe
Jamaican carrot cake is a delicious, flavorful dessert that’s both sweet and spicy (but not hot). It’s made with a warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, mixed spice, vanilla, and brown sugar, which gives the cake a rich, aromatic taste. The carrots, often seen as a simple ingredient, take center stage in this recipe.
This cake is perfect when paired with vanilla ice cream (or any flavor you like) and can be enjoyed with a glass of sparkling grape wine or a crisp white wine for a refreshing touch.
Ingredients for Jamaican carrot cake Recipe
- 3 cups of finely shredded raw carrots
- 4 beaten eggs
- 1 3/4 cups of brown sugar
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of mixed spice (a blend of spices)
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Step-by-step Process to make Jamaican Carrot Cake:
Step 1: Prepare the Carrot and Sugar Mixture
Start by grating 3 cups of raw carrots finely. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 3/4 cups of brown sugar to the carrots and mix everything together. The sugar will help to soften the carrots slightly and draw out some moisture, creating a nice base for your batter.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add 4 beaten eggs into the carrot and sugar mixture. Follow this by pouring in 1 1/2 cups of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all the wet ingredients. The oil helps keep the cake moist, and the vanilla adds a lovely flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the dry ingredients. You’ll need 2 1/2 cups of flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of mixed spice, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps and that the baking soda and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the wet carrot mixture. Stir gently to combine everything together. Be careful not to overmix, just mix until the flour is fully incorporated. The batter will be thick but smooth.
Step 5: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Once your batter is ready, grease a baking pan with butter or cooking spray. You can use a round or rectangular pan, but it should be about 9×9 inches or similar in size. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to the edges.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pan in the center of the oven. Bake the cake for about 40 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Let it cool for a few minutes before removing it from the pan.
Health benefits related to Jamaican carrot Cake
1. Rich in Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A)
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good vision, supporting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin. The high beta-carotene content in this cake can contribute to these health benefits.
2. Supports Digestive Health
Carrots are high in fiber, which is important for maintaining digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut. Although the cake contains sugar and oil, the shredded carrots still provide a good amount of fiber that aids digestion.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Spices
The spices used in this recipe—cinnamon, nutmeg, and mixed spice—have anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon is particularly known for its ability to reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar control. Nutmeg contains compounds that may help relieve digestive discomfort, while mixed spice often includes ingredients like clove, which also has anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Heart Health Benefits
The inclusion of vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower oil) in the recipe provides healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are known to promote heart health. Additionally, cinnamon and nutmeg can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and improve circulation, further supporting cardiovascular health.
5. Boosts Mood and Energy
The natural sugars in carrots combined with the brown sugar provide a quick source of energy. Additionally, cinnamon has been shown to have mood-boosting properties, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes. This can help keep you feeling energized and in a better mood, making the cake a more satisfying treat than one made with refined sugars.
FAQ’S
Can I make this Jamaican Carrot Cake healthier?
Yes, you can make some adjustments to the recipe to make it a bit healthier! Consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of sugar by using alternatives like honey or maple syrup. For a lighter option, substitute applesauce or Greek yogurt for some of the oil to reduce fat content. Additionally, you can try using coconut oil or olive oil for healthier fats.
How can I store Jamaican Carrot Cake to keep it fresh?
To keep your Jamaican carrot cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the cake, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Can I add other ingredients to the Jamaican Carrot Cake?
Yes, you can customize the cake by adding other ingredients! Popular additions include walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra texture and flavor. You can also add a cream cheese frosting or a light vanilla glaze to enhance the sweetness, though the cake itself is flavorful enough to enjoy without frosting. Just make sure any additional ingredients are well incorporated into the batter.
