Irresistibly Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This Carrot Cake is a delightful combination of moist layers and rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for any gathering.
Equipment
- - Oven
- - Mixing bowls
- Cake Pans
- - Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- - Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- 2 tsp Baking Powder Essential for the cake's rise.
- 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon Adds a warm, sweet spice.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt Balances sweetness.
- 1 tsp Baking Soda Helps the cake rise.
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar Can substitute with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
- 1 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the cake moist.
- 4 large Eggs Can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
- 2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract Enhances flavors.
- 3 cups Shredded Peeled Carrots
- 1 cup Raisins Can swap for dried cranberries.
- 1 cup Toasted Pecans Can substitute with walnuts.
For the Frosting
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Mascarpone is a tasty alternative.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can use vegan butter.
- 4 cups Confectioners' Sugar
Optional Garnish
- 1/2 cup Coarsely Chopped Toasted Pecans For garnishing.
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
- Beat together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly. Incorporate the pure vanilla extract.
- Fold in the flour mixture gradually into the wet ingredients, then gently add the shredded carrots, raisins, and toasted pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool the cakes in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract.
- Assemble the cake by layering with frosting in between each layer and covering the top and sides.
- Garnish with coarsely chopped toasted pecans if desired.
Notes
Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. Level cake layers for even presentation. Store leftovers in an airtight container.