This moist and spiced carrot cake is a timeless favorite, loaded with shredded carrots, crunchy nuts, and warm cinnamon flavors. Topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because, this cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist & Flavorful : Grated carrots keep the cake tender, while spices add warmth and depth.
- Creamy Frosting : The tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting complements the spiced cake beautifully.
- Customizable : Add raisins, pineapple, or coconut for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 8–10):
For the Cake:
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 175 g (¾ cup) brown sugar 🍯
- 75 g (⅓ cup) plain yogurt 🥄
- 120 ml (½ cup) vegetable oil 🛢️
- 225 g (1 ½ cups) plain flour 🫓
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ✨
- ½ teaspoon baking soda ✨
- ¼ teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌿
- 225 g (2 cups) grated carrots 🥕
- 75 g (½ cup) chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans recommended) 🌰
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌸
- ½ teaspoon almond essence (optional) 🌰
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 115 g (½ cup) unsalted butter , softened 🧈
- 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese , softened 🧀
- 300 g (2 ½ cups) powdered sugar , sifted 🍰
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌸
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare 🥕
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8-inch square or round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, yogurt, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients 🫓
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 3: Add the Carrots and Nuts 🥕
- Stir in the grated carrots, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and almond essence (if using). Mix until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake the Cake 🍰
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting 🧈
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and beat on high speed for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 6: Frost the Cake 🎉
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides.
- Decorate with additional chopped nuts, cinnamon dusting, or carrot-shaped marzipan if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy 🥳
- Slice the cake into squares or wedges and serve. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate treat.
💡 Tips for Success:
- Grate Fresh Carrots : Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture—they blend seamlessly into the cake.
- Add-Ins : For extra flavor, mix in ½ cup raisins, crushed pineapple (drained), or shredded coconut.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
⏰ Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Frosting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 10):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 20g
This Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a showstopper dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and creamy frosting, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whip it up for your next celebration—or just because—and enjoy every bite of this sweet, spiced delight!
