Carrot Cake for Two

Grease a 6” round cake pan with shortening or cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

In a medium bowl, beat together with an electric mixer the canola oil and sugar. Beat very well, about 1 minute. Add the egg, cinnamon and vanilla and beat another 30 seconds. Beat in the carrots for about 15 seconds—you want it to break up a bit so it stains the batter orange. Sprinkle the flour and baking powder on top and beat until just combined. Do not overmix. You may stir in the walnuts at this point or save them for the frosting, your choice.

Pour the batter into the pan, place it on a baking sheet, and bake for 26–28 minutes. Test for doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven. Moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick is ideal. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to frost it.

To make the frosting, ensure all ingredients are room temperature or you will end up with lumps. Beat together everything with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Tip the cake out of the pan, place it on a serving plate upside down (so that you have a flat surface on top) and spread the frosting on the cake. Garnish with walnuts. This cake tastes even better if allowed to sit one day (in the fridge) before serving.