Classic Carrot Cake Recipe
350kcal
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour a staple that provides structure to your cake.
- 2 cups granulated sugar adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda gives extra lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon infuses warm spiciness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg adds depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger provides a hint of spiciness.
- 1 cup vegetable oil ensures moisture.
- 4 large eggs binds the ingredients.
- 3 cups grated carrots adds natural sweetness.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple adds moisture (optional).
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans gives crunch (optional).
- 1/2 cup raisins pairs beautifully with spices (optional).
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese creates a rich frosting.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter adds creaminess.
- 4 cups powdered sugar sweetens the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk for consistency if needed.
Method
How to Make Classic Carrot Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Mix the wet ingredients in another bowl: whisk vegetable oil and eggs until well combined.
- Combine the wet and dry mixtures gently until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, nuts, and raisins.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth in a mixing bowl.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined, adjusting with milk if needed.
- Once cool, place one cake layer on a plate, frost the top, then add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
- Optionally, decorate with chopped nuts or carrot shavings.
Nutrition
Serving1sliceCalories350kcalCarbohydrates50gProtein3gFat15gSaturated Fat7gPolyunsaturated Fat2gMonounsaturated Fat6gCholesterol80mgSodium200mgPotassium150mgFiber2gSugar25gVitamin A2500IUVitamin C5mgCalcium40mgIron1mg