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