Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing
A Zesty Twist on a Classic Dessert
Discover > Texas Recipes > Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake with these Carrot Cake Squares featuring a zesty lemon cream cheese (how long does cream cheese last?) frosting. In this easy-to-follow recipe, the magic happens in the kitchen as simple ingredients come together to create a scrumptious treat.
Carrot cake squares with lemon icing offer a delightful twist to the classic carrot cake recipe that many have come to love. The combination of the moist, spiced carrot cake infused with flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg (how long does nutmeg last?), topped with a tangy lemon icing, creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart. These delectable treats not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a simple and convenient way to enjoy this popular dessert in a handheld form.
To start, gather your tools, including a medium-sized bowl for the cake batter, a box grater for the carrots (how long do carrots last?), and a separate medium bowl for the wet mixture. Ensure your baking adventure is mess-free by lightly coating the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and lining it with aluminum foil.
As you combine the flavors in the medium bowl, incorporating grated carrots and the perfect blend of ingredients, the aroma of this timeless dessert begins to fill the air. The lemon cream cheese frosting adds a zesty layer of sweetness that elevates each bite.
Follow along with precision, using separate bowls for each component, and soon you'll have these delightful Carrot Cake Squares ready for the oven. The result is a perfectly baked, moist carrot cake that's not only visually appealing but also a delightful symphony of flavors.
The versatility of carrot cake squares with lemon icing makes them ideal for various occasions, whether it be a casual picnic, a sweet treat with coffee, or a dessert for gatherings and potlucks. Their unique and enticing flavor profile is sure to impress friends and family alike, establishing this dessert as a go-to choice for those looking to provide a memorable culinary experience.
Essential Ingredients
For delicious and moist Carrot Cake Squares with Lemony Icing, several key cake ingredients are crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Firstly, the dry components include all-purpose flour (how long does flour last?) for the cake structure, baking powder (how long does baking powder last?), and baking soda (how long does baking soda last?) to help it rise. A mix of cozy spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, enhances the cake's aroma and taste, creating a fragrant symphony that defines this beloved dessert. A pinch of kosher salt, or any salt of choice, is essential for enhancing all the flavors. Additionally, brown sugar (how long does sugar last?) provides sweetness and moisture to the entire cake.
Incorporating wet ingredients like canola oil or coconut oil ensures an incredibly moist crumb, making every bite a cheat cake delight. Eggs play an essential role in binding the ingredients together and adding structure to the cake. A touch of pure vanilla extract uplifts the overall taste, infusing the cake with a hint of warmth.
Using fresh, cups shredded carrots is essential, as they provide natural sweetness, moisture, and texture to the entire cake. You may also add some raisins (how long do raisins last?) for natural sweetness and chopped walnuts or pecans (how long do pecans last?) for a delightful crunch. To create a delectable twist, include unsweetened shredded coconut (how long does shredded coconut last?), pineapple chunks, or finely chopped Medjool dates, further enhancing the overall flavor profile.
After careful mixing and preparation, pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, allowing the fragrant spices and cozy ingredients to work their magic in the oven. Follow the suggested cooking time and technique, whether using a conventional or convection oven, to ensure the cake bakes to perfection. Once baked, let the cake cool for a couple of minutes before applying the prepared icing.
For the tangy Lemony Icing, combine softened butter and cream cheese for a luscious, creamy base. Add powdered sugar for sweetness, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest (how long does lemon zest last?) for that refreshing citrus flavor. This icing, like a cozy embrace, brings the entire cake to life, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and zest. Once iced, store the cake in an air-tight container to preserve its freshness and savor the delightful combination of fragrant spices and the zing of Lemony Icing in every cozy bite.
Below is a summary of the essential ingredients for your Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing:
Dry ingredients:
If you can’t find these ingredients in your local markets, you can order all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and brown sugar online!
Wet ingredients:
Canola oil or coconut oil
Eggs
Pure vanilla extract
I highly recommend purchasing canola oil or coconut oil and pure vanilla extract online for a convenient shopping experience!
Additional elements:
Grated carrots
Raisins (optional)
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
Pineapple chunks (optional)
Medjool dates (optional)
If you're looking for raisins and unsweetened shredded coconut, buying it online is your best bet!
Lemon Icing:
Powdered sugar
Lemon juice
Grated lemon zest
When it comes to getting the best deals, buying powdered sugar online is the way to go!
Preparation Steps
To create delicious Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing, follow these preparation steps. This recipe is not only easy but also creates a delightful treat to enjoy with friends and family.
First, gather all necessary ingredients, ensuring they are at room temperature for a smooth blending process. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure even baking. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal of the cake squares later.
In a food processor, pulse the carrots until they are finely shredded. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, combine the shredded carrots, flour, sugar, eggs, oil, and baking powder. Mix until well incorporated and smooth.
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
While the carrot cake squares are cooling, prepare the lemon icing. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and softened butter with an electric mixer. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Cut the cooled cake into squares and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the lemon icing evenly over each square. If desired, freeze the squares for 15 minutes to help set the icing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
The preparation steps for these Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing are simple and clear. By following these instructions, you'll confidently create a delicious treat that is sure to impress.
For the most extensive selection, I suggest buying a baking pan, parchment paper, food processor, mixing bowl, electric mixer, and wire rack online!
Baking and Icing
Carrot Cake Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional carrot cake, taking it one step further by transforming it into an easy-to-eat-and-share dessert. Coupled with a refreshingly tangy Lemon Icing, these squares make for a perfect, mouth-watering dessert.
To begin, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a baking pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Gently mix in the wet ingredients to create a smooth batter:
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil (how long does vegetable oil last?)
3 cups grated carrots
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the carrot cake to cool completely before proceeding to icing.
For the Lemon Icing, combine the following ingredients in a small bowl:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon water
a pinch of lemon zest
Note: Adjust the consistency of the icing by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar, depending on your preference.
Once the carrot cake has cooled, remove it from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cut it into equal squares, ensuring they are easy to pick up and enjoy.
To apply the lemon icing, use a small spoon or spatula to spread a thin, even layer over the dessert squares. If desired, garnish each square with a sprinkling of chopped nuts or a little lemon zest for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Before serving, chill the iced carrot cake squares in the fridge for approximately 15-20 minutes. This step allows the lemon icing to set, providing a delicious adhesive that ensures the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. The combination of moist, spiced carrot cake and zesty lemon icing makes these dessert squares an ideal choice for any gathering or event.
The Perfect Taste and Texture
The carrot cake squares with lemon icing recipe is a delightful fusion of moist carrot cake and tangy lemon flavors. It creates a unique treat that will captivate your taste buds with each bite. The secret to achieving the perfect taste and texture lies in meticulously combining the right ingredients and techniques.
The key ingredient in any moist carrot cake recipe is, of course, the carrots. Grating fresh carrots releases their natural sugars and moisture. This not only adds sweetness to the cake but also helps create that irresistibly moist texture. By incorporating grated carrots with a good amount of oil into the batter, the cake remains soft and chewy.
Another crucial aspect of this recipe is the mixed spice. Blending cinnamon, ginger, and a hint of nutmeg enhances the flavor profile and complements the sweet, earthy taste of carrots. This harmonious balance between the spices and the other ingredients guarantees a distinctly spiced carrot cake that leaves everyone craving for more.
Let's not forget the crowning glory of these carrot cake squares: the lemon icing. The secret to achieving a smooth and luscious icing is the incorporation of two key ingredients - cream cheese and lemon zest. The cream cheese imparts a subtle tanginess and luxurious mouthfeel, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus flair. Combining these elements results in a delightful contrast to the spiced carrot cake.
To sum up, here are the essential components for creating the perfect taste and texture of carrot cake squares with lemon icing:
Grated fresh carrots for natural sweetness and moisture
A well-balanced mix of spices to enhance flavor
Cream cheese and lemon zest for a smooth and zesty icing
By paying attention to these crucial elements within the recipe, you can confidently deliver a delectable treat that boasts the perfect taste and texture combinations.
Healthy Substitutions and Nutritional Information
Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing can be made healthier by substituting some of the ingredients for more nutritious options. For example, whole wheat pastry flour can be used in place of white flour, providing more fiber and improving the overall nutritional profile. Similarly, Medjool dates can be used instead of refined sugar as a natural and nutrient-dense sweetener.
When it comes to fat content, you may replace butter with coconut oil, which has a slightly better nutritional profile. In addition, shredded coconut can be used to add texture to the cake without impacting the calorie count too much. If you prefer a spiced flavor, consider adding ginger for an extra boost of nutrition and taste.
For a healthier icing, consider using honey instead of powdered sugar as a sweetener, and almond milk (how long does almond milk last?) instead of heavy cream. These substitutions not only reduce the overall calorie content but also provide additional vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin E.
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content for each serving of Carrot Cake Squares with the suggested healthy substitutions:
Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 105mg
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 19g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Do keep in mind that the total time required when using these substitutions may vary slightly. Always monitor your cake for doneness to ensure a perfect result.
By incorporating these healthy substitutions into your Carrot Cake Squares recipe, you can indulge in a delicious treat while still keeping your diet in check. Remember that moderation is key, and enjoy your tasty Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing, knowing that the changes you made contributed to a more nutrient-dense and wholesome dessert.
Serving Suggestions and Preservation
Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing is an excellent dessert option for gatherings, casual dining, or as a special treat in a restaurant. This easy recipe yields a delightful and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress your guests. Below are some tips on serving these delicious treats and preserving them for future enjoyment.
To cut the carrot cake squares, use a sharp knife to make clean, neat cuts. This will help maintain their shape and presentation. Depending on the serving size, you can yield anywhere from 10 to 12 servings from this recipe. When serving, offer a selection of complimentary beverages, such as tea or coffee, to enhance the dessert experience.
For an elegant presentation, when plating the squares, use a dusting of ground clove or a sprinkle of powdered sugar around the plate. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle flavor to the dish. To effectively store any leftover carrot cake squares with lemon icing, follow these tips:
At room temperature: Store the squares in an airtight container or cover them with plastic wrap. They will remain fresh for up to 2 days.
In the refrigerator: Wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This method will extend their freshness for up to a week.
Freezer storage: To store the carrot cake squares for an extended period, consider freezing them. First, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty resealable plastic bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw them at room temperature and serve as desired.
Carrot Cake Squares with Lemon Icing is a delightful addition to any dessert menu or a memorable treat when entertaining. Follow the above suggestions for serving and preserving this best carrot cake recipe, ensuring that you and your guests indulge in a memorable dessert experience.
