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–+ servings

Ultimate Homemade Carrot Cake

This incredibly moist carrot cake features the perfect harmony of spices, freshly grated carrots, and a tangy cream cheese frosting. Each bite delivers sweet, spiced perfection that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 457
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups freshly grated carrots about 1½ pounds
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • 4 large eggs room temperature
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz can crushed pineapple drained
  • 1 cup raisins optional
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
  • 16 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. In a large bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Slowly add oil and vanilla, beating until well incorporated.
  4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, raisins, and nuts (if using) until just combined.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let cakes cool in pans for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
  8. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until fluffy and spreadable.
  9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread with frosting, then top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
  10. Garnish with chopped nuts, candied carrots, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra special touch.

Nutrition

Calories: 457kcalCarbohydrates: 66gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 315mgFiber: 3gSugar: 43g
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