Carrot Cake Recipe for a delicious dessert that tastes really good. It's made with flour, sugar, eggs, and oil. The result is super moist cake that melts in mouth.
You will also like Chocolate Bundt Cake, Caramel Pudding Cake, Ice Cream Cake and Lemon Tiramisu.
![Carrot Cake Recipe](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-2.jpg)
Carrot cake made with this recipe tastes really good because it has a mix of yummy flavors and textures. The cake is moist because of the carrots, and it's just sweet enough, not too much. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg make it taste even better. I add pecan nuts for a nice crunch to the soft cake. The creamy frosting with cream cheese adds richness that balances out the sweetness. This cake is both comforting and exciting, so everyone loves it.
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⭐Why You'll Love This Carrot Cake Recipe
Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The use of self-raising flour eliminates the need for additional leavening agents.
- Moist and Flavorful: This Carrot Cake Recipe creates an incredibly moist and bursting with flavor from the combination of carrots, spices, and orange zest. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet and aromatic goodness.
- Texture: The addition of pecan nuts and raisins provides a satisfying texture contrast to the soft and tender cake crumb, adding crunch and chewiness to every bite.
- Make-Ahead: This Carrot Cake can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop further. It's a convenient option for busy days or when planning ahead for gatherings.
- Versatile: Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply as a treat for yourself, this Carrot Cake Recipe is versatile and suitable for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike, this Carrot Cake is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. It's a timeless classic that always brings smiles to the faces of those who indulge in it.
If you want more desserts you should check out Yogurt Cake with 4 Ingredients and Lemon Bundt Cake.
🧾Ingredients
Here is a list of everything you need.
![Carrot Cake Recipe](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-3.jpg)
For Carrot Cake:
- Pecan Nuts: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake, providing contrast to the soft crumb of the cake. You can substitute pecan nuts with walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, or any other nut variety you prefer.
- Carrots: Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a vibrant orange color to the cake. They also contribute to the texture and help keep the cake moist.
- Raisins: Add sweetness and chewiness to the cake, enhancing its texture and providing bursts of flavor. Use dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, chopped dates, or chopped figs for a different dried fruit flavor instead of raisins.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor, contributing to the moistness and richness of the cake.
- Self-Raising Flour: Provides structure and leavening to the cake, resulting in a light and fluffy texture without the need for additional leavening agents.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients and helps balance the sweetness in the cake.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the cake, complementing the sweetness of the carrots and brown sugar.
- Nutmeg: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon and enhances the flavor of the cake.
- Natural Yogurt: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake while also providing a slight tanginess to balance the sweetness. You can substitute natural yogurt with sour cream, buttermilk, or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and added moisture.
- Vegetable Oil: Acts as a fat source, contributing to the moistness and texture of the cake while also providing richness.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together, add structure, and contribute to the richness and texture of the cake. You can substitute each egg with a vegan egg replacer, mashed banana, applesauce, or silken tofu for a vegan-friendly option. Each substitution may slightly affect the texture and binding properties of the cake.
- Orange Zest: Adds a bright citrus flavor and aroma to the cake.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake with its sweet, aromatic notes.
For the Frosting:
- Soft Cheese (Cream Cheese): Forms the base of the frosting, providing a tangy and creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake. Use mascarpone cheese, Greek yogurt cream cheese, or vegan cream cheese instead of cream cheese for dairy-free or alternative options.
- Icing Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture, ideal for spreading or piping onto the cake.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and lightness to the icing, creating a fluffy and luxurious texture that complements the moistness of the cake. You can substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream or non-dairy whipping cream for a dairy-free option.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
👩🏻🍳How to Make Carrot Cake
These step-by-step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this carrot cake recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
For Carrot Cake:
![Carrot Cake Process 1](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-1.jpg)
1. Finely chop the pecan nuts and place them into a mixing bowl.
![Carrot Cake Process 2](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-2.jpg)
2. Peel the carrots, grate them, and then mix them in with the chopped pecans in the bowl.
![Carrot Cake Process 3](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-3.jpg)
3. Into the same mixing bowl, combine raisins, brown sugar, self-raising flour, salt, ground cinnamon, and grated nutmeg. Blend all dry ingredients together thoroughly using a whisk until fully incorporated. Then, set this mixture aside for later use.
![Carrot Cake Process 4](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-4.jpg)
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the natural yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla until the mixture achieves a smooth and cohesive consistency.
![Carrot Cake Process 5](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-5.jpg)
5. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring thoroughly until the batter is evenly combined and well incorporated.
![Carrot Cake Process 6](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-6.jpg)
6. Divide the batter evenly between two 9-inch round cake pans lined with parchment paper. Place them in the oven and bake at 160°C (320°F) with the fan on for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
![Process 8](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-7.jpg)
7. After baking, take the cake out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool down entirely.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
![Process 9](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-8.jpg)
1. In a mixing bowl, whip the softened cream cheese and icing sugar together until they form a smooth and creamy consistency.
![Process 10](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-9.jpg)
2. In the same bowl, add the heavy cream and whip it until stiff peaks form, resulting in a smooth and creamy mixture. Then, transfer the cheese frosting into a piping bag for easy application.
For the Assembly:
![Process 11](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-11.jpg)
1. After the carrot cakes have fully cooled, place one of the cakes onto a plate or cake stand. With care, apply the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
![Process 12](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-12.jpg)
2. Position the second cake atop the layer of cream cheese frosting.
![Process 13](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-13.jpg)
3. Apply the cream cheese frosting in a decorative pattern on the cake's surface.
![Process 14](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-14.jpg)
4. Dust the cream cheese frosting with a fine layer of cinnamon powder.
![Carrot Cake Process 15](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-Process-15.jpg)
5. Cut the carrot cake into slices and savor each delightful bite!
📖Variations
- Apple Carrot Cake: Incorporate grated apple into the cake batter to add natural sweetness and moisture. It complements the carrots and spices beautifully.
- Pineapple Carrot Cake: Fold in crushed pineapple (drained well) into the cake batter for added sweetness and moisture. It pairs wonderfully with the carrots and spices.
- Coconut Carrot Cake: Add shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical twist. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the cream cheese icing for extra flavor and texture.
- Nutty Carrot Cake: Use a combination of different nuts such as walnuts, almonds, and pecans in the cake batter for added crunch.
- Spiced Carrot Cake: Enhance the spice profile by adding a pinch of ground cloves, ground ginger, or allspice to the cake batter along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Carrot Cake Muffins or Cupcakes: Bake the carrot cake batter in muffin or cupcake tins for individual-sized portions. Top with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for a delightful treat.
- Carrot Cake Loaf: Bake the batter in a loaf pan for a rustic and portable version of carrot cake. Slice and serve for an easy grab-and-go treat.
🔪Equipment
Check out all of my kitchen essentials in my Amazon Store! You can find the equipment I use in this recipe: Small Bowl, Cutting Board, Knife, Scraper, Large Bowl, Peeler, Grater, Spatula, Jug, Whisk, Baking Tin, Gloves, Cooling Rack, Piping Bag and Cake Server.
🍽 How to Serve
- Plating: Transfer each slice of carrot cake onto individual serving plates or a cake stand for a more elegant presentation. Ensure that there is enough space between each slice for easy serving.
- Serve with Coffee or Tea: Carrot cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Offer a selection of hot beverages to complement the sweetness of the cake.
![Carrot Cake Recipe](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-4.jpg)
💭Tips for Recipe Success
Grate the Carrots Finely: Ensure that the carrots are grated finely for a smooth texture in the cake. Coarsely grated carrots may result in uneven distribution and larger carrot pieces in the cake.
Proper Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake.
Check the Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking the cake. An oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
Line the Cake Pan: Line the bottom of your cake pans with parchment paper and grease the sides to prevent the cake from sticking.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check for doneness. The toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when the cake is fully baked.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
Chill the Cake Layers: For easier handling and frosting, chill the cake layers in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before assembling and frosting the cake.
Chill before slicing: This step ensures that the frosting sets, resulting in cleaner, more defined slices. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Slice: Use a sharp knife to slice the carrot cake into even portions.
Storage: Wrap the carrot cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate in an airtight container, ensuring it stays fresh for up to 3 to 5 days.
❓FAQ
Yes, you can freeze carrot cake. Wrap the cake slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Carrot cake can typically be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
To prevent carrot cake from drying out, ensure it is properly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Refrigerate the cake if not consuming it immediately. Additionally, avoid overbaking the cake, as overbaking can lead to dryness.
Yes, carrot cake can be made ahead of time. Baked and cooled carrot cake layers can be wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and frosting. Cream cheese frosting can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Leftover cream cheese frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically be kept for up to 3 to 5 days. Before using leftover frosting, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore its creamy consistency.
Yes, carrot cake can be made vegan or gluten-free by using suitable substitutes for eggs, dairy, and flour. For vegan carrot cake, you can use flaxseed meal or mashed banana as an egg substitute, plant-based yogurt or milk, and vegan cream cheese for frosting. For gluten-free carrot cake, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour.
🍛More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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🎥Watch my Videos
This video will show you the details and step-by-step instructions for making this fantastic Lemon Tiramisu!
📖 Recipe
![Carrot Cake Recipe](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Carrot-Cake-1-360x360.jpg)
Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For Carrot Cake:
- 100 g Pecan Nuts
- 2 Carrots
- 100 g Raisins
- 335 g Brown Sugar
- 265 g Self-Raising Flour
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 2 ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg
- 100 g Natural Yogurt
- 230 ml Vegetable Oil
- 4 Eggs
- Zest of 1 Orange
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
For the Frosting:
- 300 g Soft Cheese
- 150 g Icing Sugar
- 200 g Heavy Cream
Instructions
For Carrot Cake:
- Chop the pecan nuts and add to a large mixing bowl.
- Peel the carrots, grate and add to the chopped pecan nuts in the mixing bowl.
- In the same large mixing bowl, add raisins, brown sugar, self-raising flour, salt, ground cinnamon and grated nutmeg, and whisk together all dry ingredients until well combined. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together the natural yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing well until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into two prepared 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) with a fan for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth and creamy.
- In the same bowl, add the heavy cream, and whip until stiff peaks form and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cream cheese frosting to a piping bag.
For the Assembly:
- Once the carrot cakes have cooled completely, transfer one cake onto a plate or cake stand and gently pipe the cream cheese icing over the top of the cake.
- Place another cake over the cream cheese frosting.
- Delicately pipe the cream cheese frosting onto the cake's surface.
- Sprinkle cinnamon powder over the cream cheese frosting.
- Slice and serve the carrot cake, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
Sandra
This recipe was a hit! So moist and flavorful, and the frosting is divine.