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Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A nostalgic dessert that combines moist spiced carrot cake with velvety cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar Provides moisture and a caramel-like sweetness
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Ensures moisture and tenderness
  • 4 large eggs At room temperature
  • 3 cups grated carrots Freshly grated for moisture
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped For added crunch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened At room temperature for a smooth texture
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened At room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sifted for silkiness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the grated carrots and vanilla.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  2. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add crushed pineapple or replace some of the oil with applesauce. Decorate with additional chopped walnuts or grated carrots if desired.