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Carrot Cake

A moist and flavorful carrot cake that's easy to make, featuring a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure and a soft crumb.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the cake rise perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Balances the acidity from the carrots.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth and a cozy flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the other flavors.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist and delicious.
  • 4 large eggs Binds everything together.
  • 3 cups grated carrots The star ingredient for sweetness and texture.
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained Adds moisture and a delightful fruity note.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For an extra layer of flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional) Adds crunch and nuttiness.

For the frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Gives a rich, creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness and spreads easily.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • Grate the carrots if you haven’t done so already.

Cooking

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  • Add the oil and eggs to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
  • Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts if using.
  • Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Serving

  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
  • While the cakes are cooling, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Once the cakes are cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides.
  • Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious carrot cake!

Notes

For extra moisture, consider adding a handful of raisins! Use a mixer on low speed to combine ingredients smoothly without overmixing.
Keyword Carrot Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Easy Dessert, Homemade, Moist Cake