The Best Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe You’ll Love

Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting emerges as a delightful symphony of rustic comfort and elegant sweetness.

Warm spices dance through each tender crumb, creating a sensory experience that transcends ordinary desserts.

Robust root vegetables convert into a delectable treat that surprises and delights unexpected palates.

Soft textures and rich flavors intertwine, promising a homemade indulgence that feels simultaneously nostalgic and innovative.

Layers of complexity unfold with each carefully crafted bite, highlighting natural ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.

the harmonious balance between earthy undertones and smooth, tangy frosting elevates this classic confection beyond simple baking.

Passionate bakers and casual home cooks alike will appreciate this timeless, irresistible dessert.

Bake Your Way to the Best Carrot Cake with This Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pans

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Grease 2 round 9-inch cake pans and line them with parchment paper for easy cake removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground ginger
• Nutmeg
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Applesauce
• Vanilla extract

Fold in freshly grated carrots, mixing until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Create Cake Batter

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide batter evenly between prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Let cakes rest in pans for 20-25 minutes. Carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack and allow to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 8: Finish and Decorate

Level cake layers if needed. Spread cream cheese frosting between layers and over the entire cake. Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Helpful Tips to Elevate Your Carrot Cake Game

• Grate Carrots Perfectly: Use the large holes of a box grater for the ideal texture, ensuring moisture and tenderness in your cake.
• Prevent Dry Cake: Don't overmix the batter; stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake moist and tender.
• Check Cake Doneness Accurately: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked.
• Chill for Easier Frosting: Refrigerate cake layers for 30 minutes before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the cream cheese frosting.
• Store Smartly: Keep the frosted cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days to maintain its fresh flavor and creamy texture.

Storing Your Carrot Cake: Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness

• Store leftover carrot cake in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Carefully wrap each slice individually with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. When ready to enjoy, remove the cake from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enhance its delicious flavor.
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power to warm gently without compromising the cream cheese frosting's texture. Alternatively, place the slice on a plate and let it gradually warm to room temperature for the most authentic taste and soft, moist consistency.
• Freeze entire cake or individual slices by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Delightful Pairings to Serve Alongside Carrot Cake

• Pair with Sweet Sipping Companion: Enjoy a chilled glass of dessert wine like Riesling or Moscato, which complements the cake's warm spices and cuts through the rich cream cheese frosting.
• Match with Cozy Beverage Buddy: Brew a hot cup of chai tea or cinnamon-spiced coffee to enhance the cake's warming spices and create a delightful flavor harmony.
• Serve with Creamy Contrast: Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside the slice, creating a cool, smooth counterpoint to the cake's dense texture and spicy undertones.
• Accent with Nutty Sidekick: Sprinkle some toasted pecan pieces or serve with a handful of candied walnuts to add delightful crunch and nutty depth to each bite.

Creative Variations of Carrot Cake You’ll Want to Try

• Tropical Carrot Paradise: Replace applesauce with crushed pineapple, add shredded coconut to batter, and mix chopped macadamia nuts into frosting for a Hawaiian-inspired version.
• Chocolate Espresso Fusion: Incorporate cocoa powder into dry ingredients, add espresso powder for depth, and mix dark chocolate chips into batter for a rich, mocha-like carrot cake experience.
• Nutty Maple Harvest: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup, fold in toasted walnuts throughout the batter, and sprinkle candied pecans on top of cream cheese frosting for an autumnal feel.
• Spiced Citrus Carrot: Add orange zest to batter, increase warm spices like cardamom and cloves, and mix orange liqueur into cream cheese frosting for a bright, zesty profile.

The BEST Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Classic You’ll Adore

• Spice Up Your Dessert: Packed with warm, aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, this carrot cake delivers a cozy flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
• Moisture Magic: The combination of oil, applesauce, and grated carrots creates an incredibly moist, tender cake that stays soft and delightful for days after baking.
• Creamy Comfort Topping: The luxurious cream cheese frosting provides a tangy, smooth counterpoint to the sweet cake, offering a classic flavor combination that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Easy Baking Triumph: With simple ingredients and straightforward mixing techniques, this recipe welcomes both novice and experienced bakers to create a show-stopping dessert without stress or complicated steps.

The Essentials for the Perfect Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and base for the cakes texture.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and creates a light, fluffy consistency.
• Baking Soda: Adds additional leavening and helps balance the acidity.
• Ground Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Ground Nutmeg: Warm spices that give depth and classic carrot cake flavor.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.

• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a soft crumb.
• Large Eggs: Bind ingredients and provide structure to the cake.
• Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Add sweetness and help with moisture retention.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness without extra fat.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides rich, aromatic flavor to the cake.
• Grated Carrots: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and signature texture.

• Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter: Create a smooth, rich, and creamy frosting base.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the frostings flavor profile.
• Pecans (Optional): Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor for garnish.

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.6 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Classic carrot cake brings Southern comfort to dessert tables with its moist, spiced layers and luxurious cream cheese frosting. Generations of bakers have perfected this indulgent treat that promises pure delight in each rich, warming slice.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups (300 grams) lightly packed grated carrots
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (300 grams) packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
• ¾ cup (180 milliliters) canola or vegetable oil

Spices and Leavening Agents:

• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

• ½ cup (125 grams) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce / 226 grams) package brick-style cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (180°C) and preparing two 9-inch (23-centimeter) round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment paper liners.
2. Create the dry foundation by thoroughly whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt in a spacious mixing bowl.
3. Develop the liquid mixture by vigorously whisking vegetable oil, whole eggs, dark brown sugar, granulated white sugar, unsweetened applesauce, and pure vanilla extract until thoroughly integrated.
4. Fold the freshly grated carrots into the liquid mixture, ensuring even distribution of the vegetable shreds.
5. Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just incorporated to prevent overmixing and maintain the cake’s tender texture.
6. Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared cake pans, using a spatula to smooth the surfaces.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a clean toothpick that should emerge without wet batter.
8. Allow cakes to rest in their pans for 20-25 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack for complete temperature reduction.
9. Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating room-temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
10. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, blending until achieving a silky, spreadable consistency.
11. Level the cake layers if needed, then generously apply cream cheese frosting between layers and across the entire cake surface.
12. Optional: Embellish the frosted cake with chopped pecans around the sides or sprinkled on top for added texture and visual appeal.

Notes

• Leftover cake stays moist and delicious when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Frozen cake layers can be prepared ahead and stored for 2-3 months, wrapped securely in multiple layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Grate carrots fresh for maximum moisture and flavor, avoiding pre-shredded bagged carrots which can be dry and less flavorful.
• Room temperature ingredients like eggs and cream cheese help create a smoother, more evenly mixed batter and frosting.
• Add optional mix-ins like crushed pineapple, raisins, or toasted walnuts for extra texture and depth of flavor.
• Ensure all ingredients are well-combined but avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough, dense cake texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 40g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 100mg