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Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A moist and flavorful carrot cake topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or as a comforting dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in oil and vanilla extract.
  4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
  5. Fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts if using.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  7. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
  9. To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  10. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
  11. Once cakes are completely cool, spread frosting on top of one layer, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides.
  12. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best results.

Notes

  • Grate carrots fresh for best texture.
  • Crushed pineapple adds moisture and a slight tang.
  • Chilling the cake before slicing helps it set.
  • You can make it a day in advance and store in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, moist cake, Easter dessert, classic cake recipe