Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 3 large carrots)
- 1 cup grated apple (1 large apple, peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- For the glaze: 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Note: Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them altogether if you prefer a nut-free version. The recipe is quite forgiving, much like the way my grandmother would often adjust ingredients based on what was available in her pantry.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This was always the first step my grandmother insisted on — preparation is key!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as abuela always said, “A gentle hand makes a tender cake.”
- Fold in the grated carrots, apple, and walnuts (if using). Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The house will fill with the most inviting aroma, a true testament to the comfort this cake brings.
- While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the browned butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Once the cake has cooled, pour the glaze evenly over the top. Allow it to set before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International