The Best Homemade Best Carrot Cake Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade carrot cake is a treat you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s for a special occasion or just because.
- It’s moist and flavorful, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice.
- The cream cheese frosting is smooth and creamy, perfect for topping each slice.
- Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to bake and always impresses family and friends.
Recipe
Carrot cake is a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with warm spices, creating a moist and flavorful treat. Perfect for any occasion, this homemade version is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots, walnuts, and pineapple (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Notes:
- For extra moisture, add ½ cup raisins or shredded coconut.
- Cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with this cake.
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 12 slices
Nutrition
This homemade carrot cake is both delicious and nutritious. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Sugar | 35 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
What To Serve With It
I always top my carrot cake with creamy cream cheese frosting—it’s tangy, sweet, and the perfect match. Serving it with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or orange segments, adds a revitalizing touch. You’ll love how these pairings balance the cake’s rich flavor.
Cream Cheese Frosting
After enjoying a slice of carrot cake, I always feel it’s incomplete without a generous spread of cream cheese frosting. The tangy sweetness of the frosting balances the spiced cake perfectly, making every bite irresistible. I love how smooth and creamy it is, especially when it’s freshly made with softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla. For me, it’s not just a topping—it’s the star that ties everything together. I often add a pinch of salt to deepen the flavor, and it’s amazing how that tiny detail can make such a big difference. It’s simply the perfect match for carrot cake.
Fresh Fruit Pairings
Though carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is a treat on its own, adding fresh fruit can take it to the next level. I love pairing it with juicy orange slices—their tangy sweetness balances the cake’s richness. Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, add a pop of color and a burst of flavor. Sliced pineapple brings a tropical twist, while a handful of grapes offers a crisp, invigorating bite. For a simple garnish, a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or a few kiwi slices works wonders. These fruity additions not only complement the cake but also make it feel a bit lighter. Give it a try—it’s a game-changer!
