This Carrot Walnut Cake is a rich, moist, and perfectly spiced dessert that’s loaded with fresh carrots, crunchy walnuts, and warm cinnamon. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this homemade carrot cake will be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained, optional for extra moisture)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, beat the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Carrots and Walnuts – Fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and crushed pineapple (if using) until evenly distributed.
Bake the Cake
- Transfer to Cake Pan – Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
- Bake Until Done – Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely – Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter – In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla – Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
Frost and Serve
- Frost the Cake – Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish and Enjoy – Sprinkle with additional chopped walnuts for extra crunch. Slice and enjoy!
This Carrot Walnut Cake is a deliciously spiced, moist, and nutty dessert that pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy frosting. A timeless favorite that’s perfect for any celebration!