Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s both comforting and delightfully spiced, look no further than this Easy Carrot Cake Recipe. This classic treat brings together moist grated carrots, warming cinnamon, and a rich cream cheese frosting to create a slice of heaven that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, special celebrations, or just because, this recipe offers a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make yet wonderfully indulgent to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Carrot Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the all-purpose flour that gives structure to the cake to the fresh grated carrots that add moisture, sweetness, and texture. The blend of spices and cream cheese frosting perfectly balances the flavors, making each bite irresistibly tender and flavorful.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s foundation and a tender crumb.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for a light texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with acidic ingredients to ensure the cake stays moist.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warming spice that complements the carrots perfectly.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the natural carrot flavor.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender for days.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic sweetness.
• 2 cups grated carrots: The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness and moistness.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Essential for the creamy, tangy frosting.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a smooth, rich texture in the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.

How to Make Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out with a beautiful crust. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This combination of ingredients will give your carrot cake that wonderful rise and subtle spice that makes every bite memorable.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and blended well. Then stir in the vanilla extract and grated carrots, which will lend the cake natural sweetness and moisture.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix, as this might result in a denser cake. If you’re a fan of nuts, gently fold in the chopped walnuts to add some crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the cake is perfectly baked and moist inside.

Step 6: Let It Cool

Allow your cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This crucial step prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off, ensuring a neat and delicious finish.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, ready to complement the spiced carrot cake.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, covering every inch generously. Serve slices to friends and family, and watch their faces light up with delight at this marvelous Easy Carrot Cake Recipe.

How to Serve Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your carrot cake’s visual appeal and flavor by garnishing with a few walnut halves or a light dusting of cinnamon. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for an extra texture dimension that makes each slice look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent option, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your Easy Carrot Cake Recipe into delightful cupcakes for individual servings? Or layer different cake components with cream cheese frosting for an elegant carrot cake trifle that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your carrot cake leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Thanks to its moist texture and cream cheese frosting, this cake will stay delicious for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of chances to savor it.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen carrot cake will maintain its quality for up to 2 months, perfect for planning ahead.

Reheating

For the best taste and texture, allow frozen cake slices to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer warm cake, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds, just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Carrot Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, and make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well to enjoy the cake without any worries.

Is it necessary to use walnuts, or can I omit them?

Walnuts add a lovely crunch and flavor, but they are optional. You can leave them out for a nut-free version or replace them with other nuts or raisins based on your preference.

How do I know when the carrot cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Can I use frozen grated carrots instead of fresh?

Fresh grated carrots work best for optimum texture and moisture, but if frozen carrots are all you have, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding extra water to the batter.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for frosting?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can make a simple buttercream frosting or dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar for a less rich yet still delicious topping.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking your own carrot cake from scratch, especially when it’s as effortless and rewarding as this Easy Carrot Cake Recipe. With its perfect mix of spice, sweetness, and creamy frosting, it’s no wonder this cake has won hearts time and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor every bite as much as I do!

Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 90 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Easy Carrot Cake recipe is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring grated carrots and warm cinnamon spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, it combines a tender crumb with the rich taste of cream cheese, making it a classic favorite that’s simple to prepare.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This will distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the cake batter.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and grated carrots to integrate the flavors and texture.
4. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the chopped walnuts if using, to add crunch and flavor.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
6. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Cooling is important before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
7. Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract together in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy.
8. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides. Slice and serve to enjoy this classic carrot cake.

Notes

• For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
• Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting.
• Grate the carrots finely to ensure even moisture distribution in the cake.
• You can add raisins or pineapple for extra texture and flavor if desired.
• Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American