The Classic Carrot Cake

Like others who have expressed in the blog their not-too-strong feelings of excitement at the prospect of baking a carrot cake, I felt the same tinges of disinterest. Of course, with the rousing results of our cakes thus far, I might have known better. Baking the cakes included in our Bake-Through agenda is a joy. No matter which cake is presented in Rose Levy Beranbaum's new book, "Rose's Heavenly Cakes," there seems to be something unique and exceptional about it. It would follow, then, that this 'Classic Carrot Cake' would be very special, indeed.

mis en place

Actually, this was a simple cake to prepare. The most difficult task was shredding three pounds of carrots. I used the medium-large-grating side of a box grater. This, of course, was not a difficult task at all, except I finally found it necessary to bind up my little finger; after that it was a breeze. I did forget to add one-half the amount of raisins. They do add a lot to the cake; next time I will remember. The molasses of the the dark brown Muscovado sugar lends a great depth of flavor. The color of the cake is thrilling. My cake was so moist that it was almost loosely crumbly. I don't know if that is the result of something I didn't do, or did do. I haven't seen reference to that on our blog, but if anyone has curiosity or answer, please let me know. Perhaps that is its nature. Thanks. Since this cake has the merits of simple and the most flavorful carrot cake I have ever encountered, to me it is special. I will definitely make it again - with all of it's raisins.

mis en place

In my opinion, the Dreamy Creamy White Chocolate Frosting was dreamy and creamy, luscious, and just the right thing for this cake. Particularly dreamy with its white chocolate, marrying so well with the carrots' flavor. And, once again, very simple to prepare. I used my new La Bomba bowl to melt the chocolate.

Since the creation of this cake fell during Chanuka, we invited our friends, Leah and Rosty, who observe this holiday, to join us for celebration. They thoroughly enjoyed the cake, and we enjoyed the Festival of Lights together.

But, it doesn't stop there, I must confess. Actually, it came to pass, in the dark of that very night, that I crept ~~~ into the kitchen and > attacked my precious, furtively- saved slice of cake . . . mmmm! Smiling, I returned the remaining half of it to the fridge and left, turning out the light. Next, a flash, in that instant himself the Devil, fancifully attired in ruffles of chocolate, buttercreams and spun sugar, appeared and intoned, "You must immediately hasten back into that kitchen, and devour the other half of that slice of cake"! SO, but of course, I did and . . . Yum! [Shhhh. Please don't tell].

'Mercurious Sublimatus' assures he most certainly would have done the same!