By onica merry. Published :20 January 2025
If you're looking for a dessert that's simple to prepare yet packed with rich flavors and delightful textures, this easy carrot cake recipe is the perfect choice. It’s a timeless classic, loved for its moist crumb, warm spices, and subtle sweetness that brings comfort with every bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is foolproof, making it ideal for anyone who wants to whip up a delicious treat without stress.
The secret to the cake’s incredible texture lies in the grated carrots, which not only add natural sweetness but also ensure every slice is moist and tender. Combined with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, the flavors are perfectly balanced, delivering a comforting warmth that’s hard to resist. For added texture, you can toss in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins, though the cake is just as delightful on its own.
What truly elevates this carrot cake is the creamy, tangy frosting. Made with velvety cream cheese, a touch of butter, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, it’s the ultimate finishing touch. Whether you’re frosting a single-layer sheet cake or stacking up a layered masterpiece, this topping adds the perfect contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
This recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion—be it a birthday, holiday gathering, or casual afternoon treat. Best of all, it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. With just a few steps and no fancy equipment required, you can bake a show-stopping carrot cake that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked carrot cake wafting through your kitchen. One slice, and you’ll see why this easy recipe is a keeper!
For the cake:
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
3 large eggs
¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
½ cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce (or extra oil)
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (240g) grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
½ cup (80g) raisins (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch pan or two 8-inch round pans.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, applesauce, and vanilla until well combined.
Combine and add carrots: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and raisins if using.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s). Bake for 30-35 minutes (for round pans) or 40-45 minutes (for a 9x13 pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
Frost the cake: Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Garnish with extra nuts or shredded carrots, if desired.