The Best Carrot Cake Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Carrot cake is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to carrot cake, this recipe will quickly become your favorite. Even those who claim they don’t like carrot cake will be asking for seconds! Plus, it's simple to make with basic ingredients—no fancy equipment required.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
6 cups grated carrots
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup raisins
4 eggs
1½ cups white sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
3 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Carrots and Raisins
In a bowl, mix the grated carrots with brown sugar.
Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture and enhance sweetness.
Stir in the raisins and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy.
Add the white sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Stir in the drained crushed pineapple.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the carrot mixture and chopped walnuts (if using).
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread frosting on top of one layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting evenly over the top and sides.
Garnish with chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy!
Slice and serve this incredibly moist and flavorful carrot cake at your next gathering. It’s guaranteed to be a hit! 😍
