Name: Carrot Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: For the Cake:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 3 eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups grated carrots; ½ cup chopped pecans (optional); For the Cream Cheese Frosting:; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Carrot Cake is a timeless, moist, and spiced dessert packed with freshly grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and crunchy pecans. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this homemade classic is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
3 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

For another delicious homemade dessert, check out Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Pecans

Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Place the pans in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

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

Step 6: Assemble and Frost

Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake. Place the second cake on top and frost the entire cake. Garnish with additional pecans if desired.

For another classic treat, try Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Tips for the Best Carrot Cake

Use freshly grated carrots – Pre-shredded carrots are dry and won’t provide the same moisture.
Do not overmix the batter – Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Let the cake cool completely – Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt.
Enhance flavor – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super moist and flavorful – Every bite is rich with warm spices and fresh carrots.
Easy to make – No complicated steps, just mix, bake, and frost.
Perfect for any occasion – Whether for a birthday, holiday, or weekend treat, this cake is always a hit.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 30g

Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped at room temperature.
Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake is a soft, moist, and spiced cake that’s topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this homemade recipe is a must-try. Bake it today and enjoy a classic dessert that never disappoints!