Delicious and Moist Carrot Cake Recipe

Indulge in a perfectly moist and flavorful carrot cake with this amazing recipe by Chef John. Made with fresh carrots, aromatic spices, and a decadent cream cheese frosting, this carrot cake is a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's a special occasion or simply a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, sugar, and oil. Mix well.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the carrot mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. Fold in the chopped walnuts, raisins (if using), crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract.
7. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9x13-inch baking pan.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely.
10. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
11. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
12. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
13. Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts