Description
This carrot cake recipe is everything you’ve ever dreamed of—a perfectly moist, flavorful cake with a subtle spice blend and rich cream cheese frosting. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a cozy dessert to enjoy with your loved ones. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of sweetness and spiciness, along with the natural moisture from freshly grated carrots and optional pineapple. Easy to make, with straightforward steps and ingredients, this carrot cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Perfectly paired with a creamy frosting and optional garnishes, it’s the ultimate comfort dessert!
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of your cake, providing structure.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Another leavening agent for extra fluffiness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The signature spice for that warm, cozy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional) – Adds a bit of extra complexity, perfect for spice lovers.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor balance.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – Brings moisture and a caramel-like richness to the cake.
- 4 large eggs – The binding agent for the ingredients and a source of moisture.
- 1 cup vegetable oil – Ensures the cake remains tender and moist.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Enhances the cake’s flavor profile.
- 2 cups finely grated carrots – The main ingredient! Fresh carrots provide flavor, moisture, and nutrients.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained) – Optional, but adds even more moisture and a natural sweetness to the cake.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans – Optional but adds texture and a delightful crunch.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – The base for the creamy, tangy frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened) – For a smooth and rich texture in the frosting.
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- A pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness of the frosting and adds depth of flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans 🔥
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients 🥄
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this bowl aside for later use. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients 🍯
In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until everything is well incorporated. This mixture should be light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Grated Carrots and Optional Ingredients 🥕
Fold in the grated carrots (and pineapple if using). Mix gently to ensure the carrots are evenly distributed in the batter. If you’re using nuts like walnuts or pecans, fold those in as well for an added crunch.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients 🍰
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix gently using a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed. Do not overmix—just stir until combined.
Step 6: Bake the Cake 🍽️
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting 🧁
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 2 cups, and continue mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and beat until fully combined.
Step 8: Frost the Cake 🍴
Once the cakes have cooled completely, place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top, smoothing it evenly. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. If desired, garnish with additional walnuts or pecans.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost just before serving.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet frosting, use less sugar.
- Storage: Store any leftover carrot cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes Bake time may vary depending on your oven, so be sure to test the cake with a toothpick for doneness.
- Category: Cake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg