Carrot cake is a moist, spiced cake packed with grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. This timeless dessert is beloved for its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a favorite for celebrations or everyday indulgence. Whether you enjoy it as a layered cake or a simple sheet cake, this recipe delivers incredible texture and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (for extra moisture)
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a tangy twist)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and applesauce.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots and walnuts.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over one cake.
- Place the second cake on top and frost the entire cake.
- Garnish with extra walnuts or shredded carrots.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Moist: Applesauce and carrots keep the cake soft and tender.
- Rich & Flavorful: A warm spice blend enhances the sweetness.
- Creamy Frosting: The tangy cream cheese balances the richness.
Enjoy this classic carrot cake, a sweet and spiced delight that’s perfect for any occasion! 🥕🍰
You can explore more variations of this recipe here or here.