Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is pure comfort on a plate. Imagine warm spices, fluffy cake, and that irresistible cream cheese frosting all coming together to create something unforgettable. It doesn’t just taste fantastic; it smells amazing while baking too! The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone in for a slice. This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal treat for gatherings, special occasions, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that you’ll want to whip out time and again, whether you’re baking for a birthday or just because. After all, who can resist such deliciousness?

What is a Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that showcases the sweetness of carrots paired with aromatic spices. The cake typically has a soft and tender crumb, thanks to the carrots and a blend of sugars. Cream cheese frosting, with its rich and tangy flavor, elevates the cake to another level. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings warmth and nostalgia with each bite. It can be enjoyed year-round, making it a staple, especially at springtime gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional, for added moisture)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparing Your Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Let’s start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans. You can grease and flour them or use parchment paper for easier removal later.

Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, grab your whisk and mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk those four large eggs along with the granulated and brown sugars until the mix is nice and smooth, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Now, add in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, whisking until everything blends together beautifully!

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently pour in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix it until just combined—this step keeps your cake light and fluffy, so avoid overmixing.

Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! Fold in the finely grated carrots along with crushed pineapple (if you’re using it), walnuts, and raisins. You might notice the batter thickening up, which is perfectly fine!

Divide and Bake

Divide that beautiful batter evenly between your prepared cake pans, smoothing out the tops. Bake these for 30-35 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect frosting layer.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add Sugar Gradually

Next, gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing in one cup at a time. Keep beating until your frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Flavor the Frosting

Now, stir in the vanilla extract and add a pinch of salt. This will deepen the flavor, tying everything together nicely.

Frost the Cake

With your cakes completely cooled, generously spread frosting on top of the first layer. Place your second layer on top and continue frosting the top and sides.

Optional Garnish

For a delightful finish, you can garnish your cake with extra chopped walnuts or shredded coconut for that extra special touch.

Serving Suggestions

This moist carrot cake pairs wonderfully with your favorite coffee or tea, making for the ideal afternoon treat. It’s also perfect for special occasions such as birthdays or family gatherings. Each slice brings people together, creating moments filled with sweetness and joy.

Tips for Success

• Fresh ingredients make all the difference, so use quality ones.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your cake moist and tender.
• Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before adding the frosting to get a smooth finish.

Variations

• For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut!
• Substitute applesauce for half of the oil to reduce fat content.
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to add some texture.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this carrot cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Q2: Can I freeze carrot cake?
Absolutely! Freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Q3: Is pineapple necessary in this recipe?
Pineapple is optional; it adds moisture but can be omitted if you want a denser cake.

Q4: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Certainly! Whole wheat flour works, but it may slightly alter the texture—mixing it with all-purpose flour is a good idea.

Q5: How can I make the cream cheese frosting dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative along with dairy-free butter for a delightful vegan frosting option.

This Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience filled with warm spices and creamy goodness. Ideal for any occasion, this cake invites you to savor each slice, celebrating the joy of baking with every bite. Let the happiness flow as you share it with family and friends!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake
• Bakery Buttercream Frosting
• White Buttermilk Texas Sheet Cake
• Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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This cake is a delightful dessert with warm spices and a creamy frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat, it’s sure to please anyone who loves a sweet indulgence.

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional, for added moisture)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.
• Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, sugars, vegetable oil, and vanilla until smooth.
• Gently combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined.
• Fold in the grated carrots, and any optional ingredients like pineapple, walnuts, or raisins.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
• Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and mix in vanilla and salt.
• Frost the cooled cakes, stacking them and covering the top and sides with frosting.
• Optionally garnish with chopped walnuts or shredded coconut.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake moist.
Ensure the cakes are fully cooled before frosting.

• Author: Martha
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg