Description
This Best Ever Moist Carrot Cake is a classic dessert recipe made with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and an ultra-creamy cream cheese frosting. It’s tender, rich, and full of flavor with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking for Easter, a birthday, or just because, this carrot cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and unforgettable to eat.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups freshly grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a splash of lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with granulated and brown sugars. Add oil and vanilla, and mix well.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just blended. Fold in grated carrots and optional pineapple, nuts, or raisins.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake:
- 9-inch rounds: 30–35 minutes
- 9×13-inch pan: 40–45 minutes
Check with a toothpick for doneness. - Cool cakes completely on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla or lemon juice until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cake. Chill slightly before slicing for best results.
Notes
- Use fresh carrots, not pre-shredded, for the best moisture and texture.
- Pineapple adds sweetness and moisture—be sure to drain well.
- You can make this recipe into cupcakes—bake for 18–20 minutes.
- Add orange zest to the frosting for a citrusy twist.
- Top with chopped nuts or coconut for texture.
