Learn how to bake a classic carrot cake with this easy-to-follow recipe. Moist and flavorful, topped with cream cheese frosting, this cake is a favorite for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients for Carrot Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 5-6 medium carrots)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Carrot Cake
Making the Cake:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Carrots and Nuts: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts, if using.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pans, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes for round pans or 35-40 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Prepare Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting between the layers and on top of the cake. Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts on top for decoration.
About the Main Ingredients
- Carrots: Provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger): Enhance the flavor profile with warm and aromatic notes.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds a tangy and creamy contrast to the sweet carrot cake.
This classic carrot cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect choice for any celebration. Enjoy the combination of moist cake, crunchy nuts, and creamy frosting in every bite!
