Description
This simple carrot cake recipe features a moist, flavorful cake made with grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and optional crunchy walnuts, all topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for an easy-to-make dessert that pleases a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, eggs, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts if using until fully blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cakes cool, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add milk a little at a time to reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides as desired. Chill briefly if needed to set the frosting before serving.
Notes
- For extra texture, feel free to add shredded coconut or crushed pineapple to the batter.
- Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- If you prefer a dairy-free frosting, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
