Carrot cake is a timeless dessert loved for its moist texture, rich flavor, and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a favorite for any occasion—be it a family gathering, birthday, or a simple weekend treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup plain yogurt or applesauce
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined. Add the oil, yogurt (or applesauce), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Combine:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using).
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- For the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Conclusion
- This classic carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of moist cake, crunchy nuts, and velvety frosting is simply irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
- Pro Tips:
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle the frosted cake with additional chopped nuts or a pinch of cinnamon.
- To make this recipe ahead of time, bake the cake and store it (unfrosted) in the fridge for up to two days. Frost just before serving for the freshest taste.
Additional Tips and Variations for Classic Carrot Cake
Customizations:
- Add Coconut:
Incorporate ½ cup of shredded sweetened coconut into the batter for added texture and a tropical flair.
Golden Raisins or Cranberries:
Mix ½ cup of golden raisins or dried cranberries into the batter for bursts of sweetness.
Spiced Kick:
Enhance the spice profile with a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to complement the cinnamon and nutmeg.
Zesty Twist:
Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter or frosting for a fresh citrusy aroma.
Make it Gluten-Free:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
Presentation Ideas:
- Layered Cake:
- Divide the batter between two 9-inch round cake pans to create a layered carrot cake. Use cream cheese frosting between the layers and on top.
- Cupcakes:
- Pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes for perfectly portioned individual servings.
- Decorative Toppings:
- Garnish the frosted cake with toasted coconut flakes, whole pecans, or candied carrot ribbons for a professional touch.
- Drizzle:
- Drizzle caramel sauce or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration:
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese frosting.
- Freezing:
- Freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
Pairings and Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with Beverages:
- Serve with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk to complement the flavors.
- Occasion Ideas:
- Perfect for Easter, birthdays, or potluck gatherings.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Dry Cake:
Ensure the batter is not overmixed and avoid overbaking. Adding yogurt or applesauce helps retain moisture.
Frosting Too Soft:
Chill the frosting for 10-15 minutes if it becomes too soft to spread.
Sinking Center:
Avoid opening the oven door while baking to maintain consistent heat.