Irresistible Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Carrot cake is a classic dessert loved for its moist texture, warm spices, and subtle sweetness from fresh carrots. When paired with rich and tangy cream cheese frosting, it becomes an irresistible treat perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. This recipe will guide you through creating a moist, flavorful carrot cake with a luscious frosting that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
• 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups (about 300g) grated carrots
• 1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup (85g) crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moisture)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil.
2. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine and Add Carrots

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Fold in grated carrots, nuts, and crushed pineapple if using.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
2. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.
3. Optionally, garnish with chopped nuts or carrot decorations.

Step 8: Serve

1. Slice and serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes to set the frosting.
2. Enjoy a moist, flavorful cake with creamy, tangy frosting.

Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake

• Use freshly grated carrots for optimal moisture and flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender.
• For added flavor, toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.

This Irresistible Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a crowd-pleaser with its moist texture, warm spices, and luscious frosting. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion and will quickly become a family favorite.