Print

Carrot Cake Recipe

Carrot Cake Recipe

4.6 from 17 reviews

Indulge in the rich, moist goodness of a classic Carrot Cake topped with luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this spiced cake is a favorite dessert that will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
  4. Combine dry and wet mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Fold in carrots, nuts, and pineapple if using.
  5. Bake: Divide batter between pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool cakes on wire racks.
  6. Make frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beat until creamy.
  7. Frost cakes: Layer cakes and frost top and sides. Refrigerate before serving.

Notes

  • For extra moisture, add 1/2 cup applesauce or use melted butter.
  • Toast nuts before adding for enhanced flavor.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Nutrition