Classic Carrot Cake Recipe

Carrot cake is a moist, spiced, and flavorful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This cake is often paired with a rich cream cheese frosting, making it a favorite for celebrations, brunches, or simply as a comforting homemade treat. The addition of nuts and raisins adds texture, while the carrots keep the cake incredibly soft. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a slice with coffee, this carrot cake is sure to impress.

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Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

5. In a large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
6. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Batter

8. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
9. Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

10. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
11. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

13. In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
14. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until creamy.
15. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

16. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over one cake layer.
17. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
18. Garnish with extra walnuts or shredded carrots.

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Tips for the Best Carrot Cake

• Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Try variations like adding pineapple or coconut for extra flavor.

This Classic Carrot Cake is a timeless dessert that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. Want more variations? Check out this recipe for additional tips and techniques! 🥕✨