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
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
