Carrot cake is a timeless dessert that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of carrots with warm spices, creating a moist and flavorful treat. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or simply want to indulge in a delightful homemade dessert, this carrot cake recipe is your go-to guide. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 3 cups (300g) grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup (120g) raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Decoration (optional):
- Chopped walnuts
- Carrot ribbons or curls
Instructions:
For the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
- Beat Eggs and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the oil and mix until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Add Carrots and Nuts: Fold in the grated carrots, and if using, the chopped walnuts and raisins.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed until creamy and well combined.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated. Then increase to high speed and beat until smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Slice the Cake Layers: Using a long serrated knife, cut cake in half horizontally.
- Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate: If desired, garnish with chopped walnuts, carrot ribbons, or curls for a beautiful finishing touch.
Enjoy!
This carrot cake is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, with a moist texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy frosting. It’s a classic dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Share Your Creations!
Have you tried this carrot cake recipe? We’d love to see your results! Share your photos and any creative decorations you used in the comments below. Happy baking! 🥕🍰
Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family who love a good homemade dessert. Enjoy every delicious bite!
