Carrot Cake Recipe: Moist, Fluffy, and Perfectly Spiced

This carrot cake is the perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and sweetness, with a touch of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s the ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply craving something comforting, this carrot cake will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 large carrots)
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and continue to mix until well combined.
  5. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  6. Fold in the grated carrots, pineapple, and optional nuts and coconut, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  11. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
  12. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
  13. Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
  14. Optional: Garnish with additional chopped nuts or shredded coconut for decoration.
  15. Slice, serve, and enjoy this deliciously moist and flavorful carrot cake!

This homemade carrot cake is a delightful treat with rich spices, tender texture, and decadent frosting that everyone will love. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you’re craving a slice of cake, it never disappoints!

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