Description
This easy carrot cake recipe is a moist and delicious treat perfect for any occasion. It features grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and optional crunchy walnuts, all topped with a smooth and creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Ready in just 45 minutes, this classic dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with rich flavors and a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and blended. Stir in the vanilla extract and grated carrots to incorporate flavor and texture.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the chopped walnuts if you choose to include them for added crunch.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan or on a wire rack before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
- Make Frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve your delicious carrot cake!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened to achieve a smooth frosting.
- You can toast the walnuts lightly to enhance their flavor before adding them to the batter.
- For extra moistness, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or crushed pineapple to the batter.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To make the cake nut-free, simply omit the walnuts.
