low fat carrot squares

Method

• step 1

  Preheat oven to 180C and line a square tray with baking paper

• step 2

  In a small bowl, add the tea bags and boiled water. Allow to brew for 10 minutes. If using the raisins add them here and allow to soak for 1 hour. Set aside until needed

• step 3

  In a large bowl add all the dry ingredients EXCEPT the sugar. (flour, baking powder, mixed spice, cinnamon and salt)

• step 4

  In a separate bowl creme together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the grated carrot and combine. Next gradually mix in the beaten egg, using a little flour to stop curdling.

• step 5

  Drain the tea and raisin mix, keeping the tea juice and add the raisins to the egg mixture. Slowly add small amounts of the tea I Used around 4 tbsp. The mix should not be too runny at this stage and still hold its shape.

• step 6

  Next add the orange juice and combine until all ingredients are incorporated.

• step 7

  Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and combine. Do not over mix the mixture as you want to keep the air there and not beat it out.

• step 8

  Pour the cake mix into the prepared tray, and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and spongy to the touch. Check the middle is done using a skewer and if it come out clean then it is ready to be removed from the oven.

• step 9

  Allow the cake to cool in the tray for 20 minutes. Then remove from the tray and place on a cool wire rack to completely cool for 1 hour.

• step 10

  Decorate with a dusting of icing sugar (optional) and divide into 16 squares. They will keep for up to a week in an air tight container. Enjoy with tea or coffee either for breakfast or for a light snack :)