Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Best Carrot Cake Ever. Bursting with rich flavors from freshly grated carrots and warm spices, this cake is perfectly moist and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s ideal for celebrations or a cozy afternoon treat!
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil and eggs until well combined. Add the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts or raisins if using.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest if using.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Best Carrot Cake Ever, and enjoy the compliments from friends and family!