Description
This easy carrot cake recipe delivers a moist, flavorful cake perfect for any occasion. With simple instructions and readily available ingredients, this cake is a must-try for both beginner and seasoned bakers. Enjoy the delightful blend of spices, carrots, and a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar and vegetable oil. Beat until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
- Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While cake cools, prepare frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Once cake is completely cool, spread frosting evenly over the top.
- Decorate with chopped walnuts or pecans if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated carrots for the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to avoid a tough cake.
- Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened for a smooth frosting.
- Store leftover cake in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture and freshness.
- Consider adding crushed pineapple or raisins for variations in texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: carrot cake, easy carrot cake recipe, moist carrot cake, simple carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, baking, dessert