carrot cake old fashioned recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best carrot cake old fashioned recipe

I’ve always been a fan of traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations, and the carrot cake old-fashioned recipe is one of my favorites. There’s something special about the combination of grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and spices that makes this cake so unique and delicious.

I remember my grandmother making it for family gatherings and special occasions, and now I continue the tradition with my own family. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting from the oven is unmistakable, and the taste of the moist cake is always a hit with my kids.

This recipe has been around since the 17th century, and its simplicity and elegance make it a staple in many American households. The key to making a great carrot cake is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the carrots, which should be grated fresh each time.

The result is a cake that’s not too sweet, but rather balanced with the earthy sweetness of carrots and spices. It’s perfect for daily eating or as a special treat for guests.

I’ve experimented with this recipe over the years, adding my own twists and substitutions to make it healthier and more convenient for busy families like mine. One thing remains constant: the love and care that goes into making this cake from scratch always pays off in the end.

Carrot Cake Old Fashioned

4.9 from 1368 votes

A creative twist on the classic carrot cake, this old fashioned cocktail combines the warm spices of carrot cake with the rich depth of bourbon. The drink features a homemade carrot syrup and a spiced rim for a dessert-like experience.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 1Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Carrot Syrup

1 cup carrot juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Cocktail

2 ounces bourbon
1 ounce carrot syrup
1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Ice cubes

For the Garnish

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 orange peel strip
1 small carrot curl

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small saucepan, combine carrot juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and ginger.
2Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
3Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool for 5 minutes.
4Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or jar, discarding the cinnamon stick, and allow to cool completely to room temperature.
5On a small plate, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
6Moisten the rim of a lowball glass with a lemon wedge, then dip the rim into the sugar mixture to coat evenly.
7Set the glass aside.
8Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
9Add bourbon, 1 ounce carrot syrup, fresh lemon juice, and Angostura bitters.
10Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold to the touch.
11Strain the mixture into the prepared lowball glass filled with fresh ice.
12Garnish with an orange peel strip and a small carrot curl, then serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Small saucepan
Fine mesh strainer
Cocktail shaker
Jigger
Lowball glass
Small plate

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 15mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 32g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with strong brewed chai tea. The carrot syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Watch Video Of How Carrot Cake Old Fashioned Works

This old fashioned carrot cake is always a good idea for any occasion because it is reliable and delicious. I have taken it to family gatherings, school bake sales, and holiday dinners, and it never fails to get compliments.

The cake stays moist and the frosting is just the right amount of sweet and tangy. For storing leftovers, keep the cake in the fridge covered with a cake dome or in a container.

To reheat a slice, microwave it for about 10 seconds to soften the cake but keep the frosting cool. This cake also works well as a base for a trifle or crumbled over ice cream.

I always make an extra batch of frosting because my kids like to eat it with graham crackers. This recipe is a keeper that you will make again and again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Cake Old Fashioned

1. What type of carrots should I use for this recipe?

The best type of carrots for this recipe are large, firm, and preferably organic.

Similar Posts