A moist and flavorful carrot cake layered with tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrations or as a comforting dessert.
Author:sarra
Prep Time:20 mins
Cook Time:35 mins
Total Time:55 mins
Yield:12 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
In a large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in grated carrots, pineapple, and nuts (if using).
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in vanilla extract until creamy.
Spread frosting between cake layers, on top, and around sides.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.
Notes
For extra flavor, toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.
You can make the cake a day ahead—flavors improve after resting.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can be made as a sheet cake or cupcakes instead of layers.