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Carrot Cake

Irresistibly Moist Carrot Cake with Creamy Frosting Bliss

This moist carrot cake, topped with creamy frosting, is a delightful dessert that will be a hit at any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • - Cake pans
  • Wire racks

Ingredients
  

Carrot Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 teaspoons Baking Powder Essential for lifting.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon Can be swapped with nutmeg.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Helps cake rise.
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens and adds moisture.
  • 1 cup Vegetable Oil Can substitute with applesauce.
  • 4 large Eggs Binds ingredients.
  • 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract Adds depth.
  • 3 cups Shredded Peeled Carrots Essential for moisture.
  • 1 cup Raisins Optional.
  • 1 cup Toasted Pecans Optional, can be substituted.

Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Use vegan cream cheese for dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can be swapped with vegan butter.
  • 4 cups Confectioners' Sugar Sweetens frosting.

Garnish

  • 1/2 cup Coarsely Chopped Toasted Pecans Adds texture.

Instructions
 

Baking Steps

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and baking soda.
  • In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil, then add eggs and vanilla extract.
  • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
  • Stir in the shredded carrots, raisins, and toasted pecans.
  • Divide the batter among the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool in pans for 15 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  • Beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth, then add confectioners' sugar and vanilla.
  • Frost the cake layers and top with chopped toasted pecans.

Notes

For a decadent touch, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream.
Keyword baking, carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, dessert, homemade, moist cake