If you’re searching for the perfect carrot cake, look no further! This cake is moist, fluffy, and loaded with flavor, featuring freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a rich, velvety cream cheese frosting. Whether for a holiday, birthday, or any special occasion, this cake will impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 ½ 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 vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in grated carrots, nuts, pineapple, and coconut (if using).
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract and mix well. Add milk/heavy cream if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting over the entire cake.
Garnish with grated carrots, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips & Variations
Extra Moisture: The crushed pineapple and shredded coconut help keep the cake extra moist.
Spice it Up: Add ½ teaspoon ground ginger for an extra flavor boost.
Make it Lighter: Substitute applesauce for half of the oil for a lighter cake.
Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
This Best Carrot Cake Ever is soft, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, making it the ultimate dessert for any occasion. The creamy, tangy frosting complements the rich carrot cake layers beautifully. Make this cake once, and it’ll become your new favorite!