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Carrot Cake

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A moist and flavorful carrot cake made with fresh carrots, warm spices, and a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or as a comforting dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 3–4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the oil and vanilla extract.
  4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using).
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
  9. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  10. Add the powdered sugar gradually, then mix in vanilla extract until well combined.
  11. Once the cakes are cool, spread frosting on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Notes

  • Make sure the carrots are finely grated for a smoother texture.
  • The cake can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
  • Chopped raisins or shredded coconut can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, moist cake, spiced cake, dessert

Find it online: https://zesticook.com/carrot-cake/