Carrot Cake is a classic dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and loaded with the goodness of carrots, nuts, and warm spices, all topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy treat, this recipe will deliver a perfectly tender, flavorful carrot cake every time!
Here’s a recipe for the Best Carrot Cake:
Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups finely grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and 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.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs using an electric mixer or whisk until lightly beaten.
- Add the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Add the Carrots and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and coconut (if using).
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs).
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the cakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and a little milk if the frosting is too thick. Adjust the consistency to your liking.
7. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a cake stand or plate.
- Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of the first layer.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- You can decorate the top with extra walnuts or carrot decorations for a more festive touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy the perfect slice of moist, flavorful carrot cake with creamy frosting.
Tips for the Best Carrot Cake:
- Grating Carrots: Make sure to grate the carrots finely so they blend well into the cake, adding moisture without large chunks.
- Optional Add-ins: If you like, you can add in raisins, pineapple (drained), or even a little ginger for a slightly different twist on the traditional recipe.
- Storage: The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It stays even more moist as it sits for a day or two.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months (without the frosting). Just wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.
Optional Variations:
- Carrot Cake Cupcakes: You can use this recipe to make cupcakes! Just line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Pineapple Carrot Cake: For extra moisture and flavor, add 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained, to the batter.
This Carrot Cake is the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and richness with the tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a great dessert for any occasion, especially when you want something that’s both comforting and impressive! Would you add any special twists to your carrot cake, like raisins or pineapple?