Description

Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and spiced flavors. This moist cake, packed with freshly grated carrots and crunchy walnuts, is topped with a creamy, tangy frosting that adds the perfect finishing touch. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a treat to indulge in, this cake will transport you back to cherished memories in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup vegetable oil (or applesauce)
4 large eggs (room temperature)
2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round baking pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, combine oil, eggs, grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts until well mixed.
Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cakes cool for ten minutes in the pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
For the frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
Frost one layer of cake, place the second layer on top, and frost generously on the sides and top.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Use freshly grated carrots for optimal moisture and flavor; avoid pre-packaged options. For added flavor variations, consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or coconut. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.