The Best Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you're on the hunt for the best carrot cake recipe that perfectly balances moistness and flavor, look no further. This delightful carrot cake, topped with rich cream cheese frosting, is sure to impress at any gathering. Let's dive into the details of this delicious recipe.

Ingredients for the Carrot Cake

To make this scrumptious carrot cake, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups grated carrots (about 6 medium carrots)
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions to Make Carrot Cake

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious carrot cake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Add the vegetable oil and eggs to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
  4. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts, if using.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting

Now, let’s make the luscious cream cheese frosting that pairs perfectly with your carrot cake:

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

Instructions for Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow these simple steps to make the cream cheese frosting:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and well combined.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition until smooth.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Once the carrot cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on the top of one cake layer before placing the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Serving Your Carrot Cake

This carrot cake recipe serves about 12 people and is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a delightful dessert at home. For an extra touch, garnish your cake with additional chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Enjoy the moist, flavorful layers paired with creamy frosting!

Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake

To ensure your carrot cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

  • Use freshly grated carrots for the best flavor and moisture.
  • Do not skip the step of draining the crushed pineapple to avoid excess moisture.
  • Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • For added texture, experiment with adding raisins or shredded coconut to the batter.

With this recipe for the best carrot cake with cream cheese frosting, you’ll be sure to create a delicious treat that has everyone coming back for seconds. Happy baking!