Carrot soufflé is a delightful and versatile dish that can serve as either a side dish or a dessert, perfect for various occasions such as holidays, family gatherings, or everyday meals. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious and relatively easy-to-prepare carrot soufflé.
Ingredients
While there are slight variations in the ingredients depending on the recipe, here are the core components you will typically need:
Carrots: 2 pounds of whole carrots, peeled and cut into chunks or slices[1][3][5].
Butter: ½ cup to 1 stick of unsalted butter, softened or melted[1][3][5].
Sugar: White granulated sugar and sometimes light brown sugar, totaling about ¾ cup to 1 cup[1][3][5].
Eggs: 4 large eggs, lightly beaten[1][3][5].
Flour: ¼ cup to ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour[1][3][5].
Baking Powder: 1 ½ to 2 teaspoons[1][3][5].
Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt[1][3][5].
Vanilla Extract: 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons[1][3][5].
Optional: Evaporated milk, honey, and powdered sugar for garnish[3][5].
Instructions
Preparing the Carrots
Peel and Cut the Carrots: Use a vegetable peeler to peel the carrots, then cut them into chunks or ½-inch slices.
Boil the Carrots: Place the carrots in a large pot of lightly salted water and boil until they are super tender, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Drain the water thoroughly[1][3][5].
Blending the Ingredients
Puree the Carrots: Use an immersion blender, stand blender, or food processor to puree the cooked carrots until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl or using the same blender/food processor, combine the pureed carrots, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth[1][3][5].
Baking the Soufflé
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease or spray a 9×9 inch or 8×8 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Pour the Mixture: Pour the carrot mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake: Bake for about 40-60 minutes, or until the soufflé is lightly browned and set. It should have only a slight jiggle in the center[1][3][5].
Serving
Let it Stand: Allow the soufflé to stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of orange zest for added flavor and visual appeal[1][3].
Tips and Variations
Making Ahead: You can prepare the carrot mixture the night before and bake it the next day. This makes it convenient for planning ahead for large gatherings[3].
Texture: Depending on your preference, you can use a hand mixer for a slightly textured soufflé or a food processor for a smoother consistency[5].
Additional Ingredients: Some recipes include evaporated milk for added moisture and honey for a touch of extra sweetness[3][5].
Most Important Facts About Carrot Soufflé
Ingredients: Core ingredients include carrots, butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, spices, and vanilla extract.
Preparation: Carrots are boiled until tender, then pureed and combined with other ingredients before baking.
Baking Time: Typically baked at 350°F for 40-60 minutes until lightly browned and set.
Versatility: Can be served as a side dish or dessert, suitable for various occasions.
Ease of Preparation: Unlike traditional French soufflés, carrot soufflé is relatively easy and foolproof to make[1][3][5].
Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepared the night before and baked the next day, making it convenient for meal planning[3].
By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and impressive carrot soufflé that will be a hit at any meal.
