Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a nostalgic dessert that bursts with warmth, moisture, and just the right touch of sweetness, look no further than this Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s a delightful little cake that promises tender carrot-infused layers paired perfectly with luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or a special celebration, this recipe brings all the charm of a classic carrot cake into a manageable mini size that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to whipping up this charming mini carrot cake. Each ingredient is chosen to bring out the moistness, spiced warmth, and creamy finish that make this recipe a standout.

• All-purpose flour (¾ cup / 94 grams): The foundation providing structure to your cake while keeping it light.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic spice that complements the carrots beautifully.
• Ground ginger (pinch): A subtle zing that enhances the overall spice profile without overpowering.
• Ground nutmeg (pinch): Brings a hint of nutty sweetness to deepen the flavor complexity.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Ensures the cake rises perfectly and stays fluffy.
• Salt (pinch): Balances sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors.
• Vegetable or canola oil (¼ cup / 60 ml): Keeps the crumb irresistibly moist and tender.
• Brown sugar (½ cup / 105 grams, packed): Adds caramel undertones and enhances moisture retention.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together and gives the cake structure.
• Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon for cake, ½ teaspoon for frosting): Imparts a sweet, fragrant depth.
• Milk (¼ cup / 60 ml): Adds a slight creaminess and helps incorporate dry ingredients smoothly.
• Finely grated carrots (¾ cup): The star ingredient that delivers natural sweetness, color, and texture.
• Chopped walnuts or raisins (¼ cup, optional): Introduces delightful crunch or chewiness, depending on your mood.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup / 56 grams, softened): Used in the frosting for a rich, creamy base.
• Full-fat cream cheese (2 ounces / 56 grams): Creates that signature tangy frosting that balances the cake’s sweetness.
• Powdered sugar (½ – 1 cup / 55–110 grams): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to luscious perfection.
• Pinch of salt (for frosting): Enhances the flavor and cuts through the richness.
• Milk or cream (1-2 teaspoons, if needed): Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading.

How to Make Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). It’s best to line a 6-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease the sides to guarantee your mini carrot cake releases easily after baking. This little prep step sets you up for success and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Whisking these together ensures an even distribution of spices and leavening agents, giving the cake balanced flavor and lift.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, packed brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This wet blend is where moisture and sweetness meet to keep the cake wonderfully tender.

Step 4: Combine Carrots with Wet Mix

Stir the finely grated carrots into your wet ingredients. They not only provide that signature carrot cake flavor but also contribute delightful texture and vibrant color to the batter.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, or your cake could turn dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in Nuts or Raisins (If Using)

This is the moment to add chopped walnuts for a toasted crunch or raisins if you prefer a sweet chew. Both options add playful texture and complexity, but feel free to leave them out for a classic, simple cake.

Step 7: Bake Your Mini Carrot Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center pops out clean. Cooling it in the pan for at least 15 minutes before removing helps the cake maintain its shape and makes frosting easier.

Step 8: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then add the cream cheese and continue beating until smooth and combined. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If the frosting feels too thick, add milk or cream a teaspoon at a time until it reaches that perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

Once your mini carrot cake has cooled completely, generously frost the top with the luscious cream cheese frosting. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts if you like a little extra crunch and a lovely finish.

How to Serve Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top adds texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cream cheese frosting. For a festive touch, try a light dusting of cinnamon or even edible flowers to brighten things up.

Side Dishes

This mini carrot cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced chai tea, coffee, or even a rich hot chocolate. For something lighter, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the cake’s spicy sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe into charming individual servings by baking the batter in muffin tins or small ramekins, then frosting each one. Decorating with cute carrot-shaped fondant toppers or colorful sprinkles makes this dessert festive enough for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover mini carrot cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic treat to enjoy over multiple sittings.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the unfrosted cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then frost just before serving for fresher flavor and texture.

Reheating

While this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer it warm, remove the frosting and microwave a slice for about 10–15 seconds. Then add fresh frosting or whipped cream after warming for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Using whole wheat flour will add a heartier texture and a nuttier flavor, which pairs nicely with the spices and carrots. Just keep in mind it may make the cake a bit denser.

Do I have to add nuts or raisins?

Not at all. The nuts and raisins are optional and meant to add texture and flavor contrasts. If you’re serving someone with allergies or prefer a simpler cake, feel free to leave them out.

How do I make sure my cake stays moist?

Using oil instead of butter in the batter helps maintain moisture, as does not overbaking the cake. Grated fresh carrots also contribute natural moisture, keeping the cake tender.

Can I make this Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter for the frosting. Use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for the batter and frosting as well for a fully dairy-free version.

What’s the best way to grate the carrots?

Using a fine grater or microplane yields the best texture, ensuring the carrots blend seamlessly into the batter without large chunks, which keeps the cake moist and uniformly tender.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a Mini Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that combines simple ingredients, comforting spices, and creamy frosting into one unforgettable dessert. It’s a recipe that invites you to enjoy every bite, share with loved ones, and savor homemade goodness in its cutest form. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why this little cake becomes a beloved favorite in any kitchen.

Print