By Dinesh | coffeecakerecipe.blog
Carrot Cake Recipe is a delightful combination of warm spices, freshly grated carrots, and crunchy nuts, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. It’s a soft, moist, and flavorful cake, perfect for celebrations or a cozy treat.
With years of baking experience, I have perfected this foolproof recipe, ensuring every bite is rich, moist, and irresistibly delicious. So, let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Recipe
✔ Super moist & tender – Thanks to freshly grated carrots and oil.
✔ Perfectly spiced – Balanced flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
✔ Luscious frosting – Cream cheese frosting that’s smooth and tangy.
✔ Customizable – Add nuts, raisins, or pineapple for extra texture.
Ingredients for Carrot Cake Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Carrot Cake Recipe
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups freshly grated carrots (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Cake Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
- Flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Whisk well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In another large bowl, whisk together:
- Vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract for extra flavor.
4. Combine the Batter
- Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Mix gently until just combined.
5. Add Carrots & Nuts
- Fold in grated carrots and chopped pecans (if using).
- Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
6. Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
This smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy frosting perfectly complements the carrot cake.
1. Beat the Butter & Cream Cheese
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.
2. Add Sugar & Vanilla
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
- Mix in vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Assembling the Carrot Cake
Once the cake layers are cooled, it’s time to assemble and decorate.
1. Slice & Layer the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting evenly over it.
- Repeat with the second layer.
2. Cover the Cake
- Spread a thin crumb coat, then apply a final thick layer of frosting.
3. Decorate & Chill
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Expert Baking Tips (From My Experience)
✔ Use fresh, finely grated carrots – This helps keep the cake moist.
✔ Do not overmix the batter – Overmixing makes the cake dense.
✔ Let the cake cool completely before frosting – This prevents the frosting from melting.
✔ Chill the cake before slicing – It makes cutting easier and neater.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
💡 Cake too dry? – Use buttermilk or applesauce for extra moisture.
💡 Cake not rising properly? – Ensure baking soda & baking powder are fresh and active.
💡 Frosting too runny? – Chill the cream cheese before whipping it.
Delicious Variations
Want to customize your Carrot Cake? Try these variations:
🍍 Tropical Carrot Cake – Add crushed pineapple & shredded coconut.
🍫 Chocolate Carrot Cake – Add cocoa powder for a rich flavor.
🎂 Carrot Cake Cupcakes – Pour batter into cupcake liners and bake for 20 minutes.
🌿 Vegan Carrot Cake – Use flax eggs & almond milk instead of dairy.
Serving & Storage Tips
How to Serve
🍰 Best served chilled or at room temperature.
☕ Pairs well with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
🍦 Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
How to Store
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Allow frozen cake to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sugar | 30g |
(Approximate values based on ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts from Dinesh
This Carrot Cake Recipe is one of my absolute favorite cakes to bake. It’s moist, spiced, and incredibly delicious, especially when topped with cream cheese frosting.
This recipe is foolproof, and I guarantee bakery-style results at home. Try it today and let me know in the comments how it turned out!
