Moist, warmly spiced, and topped with rich cream cheese frosting, the Carrot Spice Cake is a beloved classic that combines rustic charm with irresistible flavor. Packed with shredded carrots, a hint of cinnamon, and optional add-ins like nuts or pineapple, this cake is a heartwarming treat for birthdays, holidays, or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups (200g) finely grated carrots
- ½ cup (120ml) crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3½–4 cups (450–500g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together the oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, and if using, the pineapple and nuts.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the pans. Bake for 28–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then the vanilla and optional pinch of cinnamon. Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread frosting over one layer, stack the second, and frost the top and sides. Decorate with chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or little marzipan carrots for a fun touch.
Tips for a Perfect Carrot Cake
- Use finely grated carrots for an even texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter — it can lead to a dense cake.
- For extra moisture and flavor, pineapple is a game-changer!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot chai tea, spiced coffee, or apple cider
- Perfect for brunch, dessert tables, or Easter dinner
- Pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream
Final Thoughts
The Carrot Spice Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert — sweet, spiced, and perfectly nostalgic. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual afternoon treat, this cake brings warmth to every table and joy to every bite.