The BEST Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
250 grams
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
180ml
- 4 large eggs
room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 cups light brown sugar
300 grams
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
100 grams
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
125 grams
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
lightly packed, 300 grams
- 1 package brick style cream cheese
softened to room temperature, 8-ounce
- ½ cup unsalted butter
softened to room temperature, 115 grams
- 2 cups powdered sugar
240 grams
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray two 9-inch round cake pans well with non stick cooking spray (you can also line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper for easier removal) and set aside.
- 2
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large mixing bowl using a hand-held mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the butter and mix for about 30 seconds-1 minute until well combined and smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- 3
Level the tops of each cake with a knife or cake leveler. Place one of the cakes on a cake stand, top with a little over 1/2 cup of the frosting, and smooth it out into one even layer. Place the other cake on top and use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake. Top with pecans or other toppings of choice if desired.
The BEST Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 761 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a homemade carrot cake that’s incredibly moist and bursting with flavor, without being overly complicated? Look no further than this beloved recipe. It delivers on the promise of a truly satisfying dessert, perfect for any occasion.
This recipe shines because of its thoughtful combination of ingredients. The blend of warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, combined with grated carrots and the secret touch of unsweetened applesauce, ensures a remarkably moist and flavorful cake every time. Paired with a simple, tangy homemade cream cheese frosting, it’s a harmonious balance that truly elevates this classic. You'll love how straightforward it is to achieve such delicious results.
Expect a carrot cake that is wonderfully tender with a fine crumb, rich with the comforting aroma of spices and the subtle sweetness of fresh carrots. The cake’s texture is exceptionally moist, complemented by a luxuriously smooth and creamy frosting that has just the right amount of tang to balance the sweetness. This is an easy-to-make cake that promises a delightful baking experience and a truly delicious outcome, making it an instant favorite.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to adjust the amounts of ground cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to personal taste, perhaps adding a little extra for a bolder spice profile. You can also opt for either canola or vegetable oil as specified, depending on what you have on hand. For a slightly less sweet frosting, you could subtly reduce the powdered sugar, though the listed amount provides a balanced sweetness and structure.
Serving & Context
This carrot cake is a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings, holiday meals, or simply as a comforting treat with your afternoon coffee. Its inviting aroma and delightful taste make it suitable for any time you desire a truly special dessert.