Introduction
Embracing the spirit of spring, the carrot cake traybake emerges as a favorite among bakers seeking a delightful, seasonal treat. This unique recipe not only features the customary warming spices and orange zest but also introduces a twist with a ricotta frosting that adds a deliciously light and tangy dimension to the classic cream cheese topping. Unconventional yet harmonious, the addition of thyme provides a subtle herbal undertone, creating a cake that is not only visually appealing but also a symphony of flavors.
Ingredients for Carrot Cake
The Foundation of Flavor
The first step towards crafting this delectable carrot cake involves gathering a set of quality ingredients. The combination of these elements plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness, and herbal notes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Soft butter for greasing
- 200 g plain flour
- 1 tsp. bicarbonate of soda
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 200 g soft light brown sugar
- 2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 mixed spice
- 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
- Zest of 1 orange
- 200 g peeled and coarsely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 100 g walnuts, roughly chopped
- 200 ml vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs, beaten
Crafting the Foundation
To prepare the cake base, meticulous attention is required to combine these ingredients effectively. The process involves a careful orchestration of flavors and textures:
Step 1: Mixing and Baking
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating the oven to 180 ºC (160º Fan) mark 4. Prepare a 20cm x 30cm x 5cm deep baking tin by greasing and lining it.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend all the cake ingredients thoroughly using a large metal spoon or spatula until a well-combined batter is achieved.
- Transfer to the tin: Place the batter into the lined tin and ensure it is evenly spread into the corners.
Step 2: Baking Perfection
- Bake: Allow the cake to bake on the middle shelf of the oven for 35-40 minutes. The desired result is a golden, well-risen cake with a clean skewer test indicating its readiness.
- Cooling Process: Once baked, let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Crafting the Ricotta Frosting
The crowning glory of this carrot cake traybake lies in its ricotta frosting, a luscious blend of textures and flavors that elevate the dessert experience.
Ingredients for Ricotta Frosting
- 250 g tub ricotta
- 100 g soft unsalted butter
- Zest of ½ orange, plus extra to decorate
- 175 g icing sugar
- 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, picked and finely chopped
Step-by-Step Frosting Magic
Step 3: Preparing the Frosting
- Frosting creation: While the cake bakes, focus on crafting the ricotta frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta, soft unsalted butter, orange zest, icing sugar, and half the thyme.
- Beating to perfection: Employ an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until well combined and fluffy, typically taking 2-3 minutes. Despite its initial looseness, the mixture will firm up upon chilling.
Step 4: Final Flourish
- Chill the frosting: Cover and chill the frosting for about an hour to allow it to firm up slightly.
- Assembling the masterpiece: Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spread the ricotta frosting over it, creating a smooth and tantalizing surface.
- Finishing touches: Scatter the remaining thyme and additional orange zest over the frosting, adding a visual and aromatic finale to this springtime masterpiece.
Storage Tips
To ensure the longevity of this delectable creation, it is recommended to follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Cover and store the cake in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, maintaining its freshness and preserving the rich flavors.
Conclusion
In summary, the carrot cake traybake with ricotta frosting presents itself as a delightful culinary journey. From the carefully chosen ingredients to the meticulous preparation of the cake and the exquisite ricotta frosting, every step contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures. This recipe not only caters to the taste buds but also serves as a testament to the creativity and versatility that can be infused into traditional bakes. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a comforting treat, this carrot cake traybake with ricotta frosting is a masterpiece waiting to be savored.