This moist carrot cake recipe is a delightful dessert perfect for celebrations like Easter or birthdays. Made with fresh grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, it’s a favorite among homemade cake recipes.

The cake is easy to prepare and can be decorated to suit any occasion, making it a versatile choice for gatherings or special events.

Delicious Carrot Cake Recipe

This carrot cake features a tender crumb and rich flavor from the carrots and spices. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the cake. This recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 8-10 people.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the oil, eggs, grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the nuts if using.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
7. Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
8. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
9. Decorate: Optionally, decorate the cake with additional nuts or carrot decorations for a festive touch.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g