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Classic Carrot Cake

This classic carrot cake is a balance of flavors and textures that work together beautifully. With warm spices and a rich cream cheese frosting, it's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1.5 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp allspice
  • 0.25 tsp nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2.5 cups carrots, finely shredded

Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings

  • 1-2 cups toasted pecans, chopped

Instructions

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg.
  • Step 3: In another bowl, beat the eggs and add granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
  • Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them together gently.
  • Step 5: Fold in the finely shredded carrots and half of the toasted pecans.
  • Step 6: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
  • Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Step 8: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Step 9: Prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  • Step 10: Frost the cooled cakes, placing one layer on a serving plate, frosting it, and then adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides, and sprinkle with remaining pecans.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cake Pans
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Notes

For an extra moist cake, consider adding a cup of crushed pineapple (drained) to the batter.