Carrot and Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Add-ins:
  • 1 cup (120g) grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated apple or pineapple (drained)
  • 1/2 cup (75g) raisins or dried cranberries
  • 1/3 cup (50g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (30g) shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, combine the oil, sugar, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in Add-ins:
   • Gently fold in grated carrots, grated apple/pineapple, raisins, nuts, and coconut. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.

Optional Variations:

• Add spices like ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
• For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
• Top with a light cream cheese frosting for a sweeter version.

This carrot and fruit cake is perfect for a healthy snack, breakfast, or dessert! Let me know if you’d like additional tips or adjustments.