Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a beloved dessert that offers the perfect balance of rich, spiced cake with a smooth, tangy frosting. This timeless treat is often associated with celebrations, special occasions, or simply indulging in a comforting dessert. The moist, tender carrot cake is infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, while the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, slightly tangy contrast that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. Whether you’re a carrot cake enthusiast or a first-time baker, this recipe is easy to follow and will deliver a delicious result every time.

Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a birthday party, or a simple afternoon treat, this cake will be a hit. The combination of warm spices, grated carrots, and the velvety cream cheese frosting makes for a decadent and satisfying dessert. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to make a perfect Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, offering tips for success and delicious variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Moist and Flavorful Cake: This carrot cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the fresh grated carrots and the warm spices that add depth. The cake’s tender crumb is complemented by the natural sweetness of the carrots.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The smooth, creamy, and tangy cream cheese frosting is the perfect balance to the richness of the carrot cake. It’s not too sweet, making it the ideal complement to the spiced cake.
• Nuts and Texture: If you like, you can add walnuts or pecans to the cake, giving it extra texture and flavor. These nuts provide a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft cake.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients like flour, eggs, sugar, and carrots, this recipe doesn’t require fancy or hard-to-find items, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pastry chefs.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a special holiday, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy treat for yourself, Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is always a great choice. It’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes (for frosting)
• Servings: Approximately 12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per slice, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 30-35g

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups finely grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
• 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional, for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrot Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These dry ingredients will provide the structure and warm spiced flavor that the cake is known for.

In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This helps incorporate air into the batter, which contributes to a tender cake.

Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the egg and sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated. The oil helps keep the cake moist, and the vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.

Next, fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using). The carrots provide moisture and sweetness, while the nuts add texture and a bit of crunch.

2. Bake the Carrot Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops and ensure even distribution.

Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown, and the edges will slightly pull away from the sides of the pan.

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After that, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cakes cool, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures that the frosting has a smooth texture without lumps.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting seems too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Mix in the vanilla extract, which adds flavor to the frosting and enhances its sweetness.

4. Assemble the Carrot Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first layer. You can use an offset spatula to create an even layer of frosting.

Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Use the remaining cream cheese frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the frosting to create a beautiful, even finish.

If desired, decorate the top with additional chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or you can pipe a decorative border of frosting around the edges.

5. Chill the Cake (Optional)

For best results, chill the finished cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the frosting. This will help the frosting firm up and make it easier to slice.

6. Serve the Carrot Cake

Once the cake has chilled and the frosting has set, it’s ready to be served. Slice the cake into generous pieces and enjoy this delicious homemade dessert!

Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use Fresh Carrots: Fresh, finely grated carrots will ensure the cake is moist and flavorful. Avoid pre-grated carrots, as they tend to be dry and can affect the cake’s texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the cake light and airy.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature before using them. This helps them mix better and results in a smoother batter and frosting.
• Chill the Cake: Chilling the cake before serving helps the frosting set and makes it easier to slice. It also enhances the flavor and texture of the cake.
• Frosting Variations: If you prefer a sweeter frosting, you can add a little more powdered sugar. For a tangier frosting, increase the amount of cream cheese.

Variations of Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Carrot Cake with Pineapple: Add 1 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) to the cake batter for added moisture and a hint of tropical flavor. The pineapple pairs wonderfully with the spiced cake and cream cheese frosting.
• Carrot Cake with Coconut: For a coconut twist, add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the cake batter. This variation adds texture and a slight sweetness that complements the carrot and cinnamon.
• Carrot Cake Cupcakes: If you prefer cupcakes, simply divide the batter into a lined cupcake tin and bake for 18-20 minutes. Top with the same cream cheese frosting and garnish with chopped nuts or coconut.
• Gluten-Free Carrot Cake: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. This makes the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Carrot Cake: For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. Replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Storage and Shelf Life

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. Store the leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will help keep the cake moist and preserve the frosting’s creamy texture.

If you want to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove the cake from the freezer and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pair your carrot cake with these delicious options to enhance the dessert experience:

• Coffee or Tea: Carrot cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverages complement the spices in the cake and enhance its flavors.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a slice of carrot cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy ice cream balances the richness of the cake and frosting.
• Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter with citrus fruits like oranges or berries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Cheese and Crackers: A simple cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance the sweetness of the cake and make for a lovely contrast.

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Conclusion

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delicious and timeless dessert that brings together the best of spiced cake and tangy, creamy frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply craving a comforting dessert, this cake is sure to impress. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and the option to customize with your favorite additions, this recipe is a must-have in your baking repertoire. Enjoy a slice of this delightful treat and share the joy with friends and family!