Indulge in the moist and flavorful goodness of this homemade carrot cake. This classic recipe combines freshly grated carrots, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Follow this easy recipe to create a memorable and delicious dessert that will impress everyone.
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 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
- Add the vegetable oil and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, chopped walnuts, and vanilla extract.
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the milk and continue beating until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of one cake layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- Decorate the cake as desired and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Slice and enjoy the decadent and moist carrot cake!
Interesting Facts
Carrots were used in cakes during medieval times as a sweetener when sugar was expensive.
Adding crushed pineapple to the carrot cake batter enhances its moisture and adds a touch of sweetness.
Carrot cake became popular in the United States during World War II when the government promoted carrot recipes as a substitute for sugar.