Carrot cake is a type of cake that includes grated carrots in the batter, which adds moisture and sweetness. It’s typically flavored with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and often includes ingredients like nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) and raisins. Carrot cake is commonly topped with cream cheese frosting, which complements the flavors of the cake beautifully. It’s a popular dessert for celebrations and can be enjoyed year-round!
Here’s a simple recipe for carrot cake:
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil and eggs. Beat until well mixed.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients:
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple (if using), and nuts (if using).
- Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
- Frost the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Serve:
- Slice and enjoy your delicious carrot cake!
Feel free to adjust the spices and add-ins to your taste. Enjoy baking!