Carrot & Walnut Cake (UK Price, Calories & Allergens 2026)
The Carrot & Walnut Cake at Costa is a rich bakery cake priced at £3.35 for a 130g portion. With 497 calories per slice, it stands out as an indulgent dessert-style treat rather than a light snack. It combines dense sweetness and a hearty, spiced nuttiness that is driven by real carrot, walnut pieces, and warming spice notes.
This cake is suitable for vegetarians but contains several key allergens including wheat, egg, milk, and tree nuts, so it requires caution for those with sensitivities. The presence of cream cheese frosting adds creamy richness and increases saturated fat and sugar levels, contributing to its decadent nature.
Offering 6.4g protein and 2.6g fibre per portion, this cake delivers some nutritional substance but leans heavily on carbohydrates (63g) and sugars (40g), making it more of a sweet indulgence than a balanced meal replacement.
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Per Portion (130g) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy (kcal) | 382 | 497 |
| Energy (kJ) | 1596 | 2075 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 48 | 63 |
| Sugars (g) | 31 | 40 |
| Fat (g) | 18 | 24 |
| Saturates (g) | 6.5 | 8.4 |
| Fibre (g) | 2 | 2.6 |
| Protein (g) | 5 | 6.4 |
| Salt (g) | 0.48 | 0.63 |
Quick Takeaways
- 130g portion contains 497 calories, making it a substantial sweet treat.
- Walnuts and carrot provide a distinct spiced nutty flavour balanced by cream cheese frosting.
- Contains wheat, egg, milk, and tree nuts—important allergens to note.
- Suitable for vegetarians but not for vegans due to dairy and egg ingredients.
- High in sugars (40g) and saturated fats (8.4g), reflecting its indulgent appeal.
- Protein content of 6.4g adds some satiety beyond pure sweetness.
A Decadent Cake to Satisfy Sweet Cravings
This is a classic bakery-style carrot and walnut cake, characterised by its moist sponge where grated carrot and crunchy walnut pieces stand out. The inclusion of apple and pineapple pulp subtly enhances moisture and natural sweetness, while spices such as cinnamon and mixed spice deepen the flavour profile.
The 29% cream cheese frosting is a defining element, contributing noticeable creaminess and sweetness along with rich dairy fats. Together, these ingredients create a layered flavour experience that is dense and richly spiced, ideal for those seeking a more indulgent cake option.
Spiced Nuttiness with Dense Sweetness
The taste is driven by a combination of carrot’s earthiness and walnut’s characteristic bitterness, both elevated by warming spices and the natural sugars of added apple and sultanas. The pineapple pulp offers a subtle fruity note that contrasts with the sweetness of golden syrup in the frosting.
This cake’s richness is reflected in its nutrition: a high sugar content (40g per portion) and significant saturated fat (8.4g) frame it as a dessert-style indulgence. The dense sweetness and nutty flavour make it particularly satisfying when you want a substantial treat rather than a quick, light snack.
What the Portion and Nutrition Suggest About Its Role
At almost 500 calories for a 130g slice, this cake carries enough energy to be considered a filling option for an afternoon pick-me-up or a dessert after a meal. While it provides some protein and fibre, the dominant feature is its sugar and fat content, positioning it as a richer, more calorific choice rather than a day-long energy source.
It suits those who want to indulge in a sweet treat with texture and depth, appealing to fans of spiced, nutty desserts rather than someone looking for a light snack or meal replacement.
Who Should Choose This Cake?
Vegetarians will find this cake suitable, enjoying its blend of flavours without animal gelatin or meat products. However, it is not vegan due to the inclusion of egg and dairy-based cream cheese frosting.
Anyone with allergies to wheat, egg, milk, or tree nuts must avoid this product. The walnut content is significant and easily perceptible, so it is essential information for those with nut allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Prices shown are typical UK menu estimates for 2026 and may vary by store location, promotions, delivery services, or eat-in vs takeaway pricing. Nutritional values are based on standard drink configurations and may change depending on size, milk choice, extras, or recipe updates made by the brand.