easy carrot cake recipe

A Comprehensive Guide to Making an Easy Carrot Cake

Carrot cake is a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the warmth of spices and the crunch of nuts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making an easy and delicious carrot cake, along with some variations to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

While the ingredients may vary slightly depending on the recipe, here are the core components you’ll need:

For the Cake:

Flour: 2-2.5 cups (260-300g) of all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled[2][4][5].
Sugars: 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar and 1-1.5 cups (190-300g) packed light or dark brown sugar[2][4][5].
Oil: 1-1.25 cups (240-295ml) of vegetable oil or olive oil[2][4][5].
Eggs: 4 large eggs, at room temperature[2][4][5].
Spices: 1-1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and optional spices like ginger, cloves, or nutmeg[2][4].
Carrots: 3 cups (300g) grated peeled carrots, which is about 5-6 medium carrots[2][4].
Nuts: 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans or walnuts[1][2][4].
Optional: 1/2 cup (70g) raisins[4].

For the Frosting:

Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, at room temperature[1][4].
Butter: 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened[1].
Powdered Sugar: 1.25 to 4 cups (140-600g) powdered sugar[1][4].
Vanilla: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract[1][4].

Instructions

Preparing the Cake

Whisk Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and any other spices you’re using[1][2][4].

Whisk Wet Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract[1][2][4].

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. A few streaks of flour should remain[1][4].

Add Carrots and Nuts:

Fold the grated carrots and chopped nuts into the batter using a spatula[1][2][4].

Prepare the Pans:

Lightly grease two 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray or butter and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Divide the batter evenly between the pans[1][4].

Bake the Cake:

Bake in an oven heated to 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake layers cool completely in the pans on a wire cooling rack before inverting and removing the parchment paper[1][4].

Preparing the Frosting

Beat Cream Cheese and Butter:

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy[1][4].

Add Vanilla and Powdered Sugar:

Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until you achieve the desired consistency and sweetness[1][4].

Optional Additions:

You can add cold heavy cream to adjust the frosting’s consistency or cornstarch to stabilize it[4].

Tips and Variations

Spices: Adjust the amount and type of spices according to your preference. Common additions include ginger, cloves, and nutmeg[2][4].
Nuts: Use either pecans or walnuts, and feel free to add them as a garnish as well[1][2][4].
Raisins: Include raisins for added sweetness and texture, if desired[4].
Oil: Olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile[5].
Cooling: Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from sliding off[4].

Most Important Facts About Easy Carrot Cake Recipes

Dry and Wet Ingredients: Always whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, spices) and wet ingredients (sugars, oil, eggs) separately before combining them[1][2][4].
Carrot Quantity: Use about 3 cups (300g) of grated carrots, which is equivalent to 5-6 medium carrots[2][4].
Baking Temperature and Time: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean[1][4].
Cooling: Cool the cake layers completely in the pans or on a wire cooling rack to ensure the frosting adheres properly[1][4].
Frosting: Use a combination of cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar for a classic cream cheese frosting. Adjust the consistency with heavy cream or cornstarch if needed[1][4].

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious, moist, and flavorful carrot cake that’s perfect for any occasion.