Classic Homemade Carrot Cake

Indulge in a slice of this classic homemade carrot cake. Made with freshly grated carrots, walnuts, and warm spices, this moist and tender cake is topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion or afternoon treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, grated carrots, crushed pineapple, walnuts, raisins (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes (for a 9x13-inch pan) or 25-30 minutes (for round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan(s) on a wire rack.
7. To make the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
8. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
9. Once the cake has cooled, frost the top with the cream cheese frosting. For layered cakes, frost between the layers as well.
10. Serve and enjoy!

Interesting Facts