Moist & Classic Carrot Cake Recipe – A Perfectly Spiced

Carrot Cake Recipe – Carrot cake is one of the most beloved desserts worldwide, known for its incredible moisture, rich flavor, and delightful combination of warm spices. The natural sweetness of carrots blends beautifully with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, creating a cake that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether it’s for birthdays, holidays, afternoon tea, or a weekend baking project, a classic carrot cake never fails to impress.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American / International

• Course: Dessert / Cake

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 25 minutes

• Resting & Cooling Time: 45 minutes

• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

• Servings: 10–12 slices

• Calories: ~420 calories per slice

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Wet Ingredients

• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

• ¾ cup vegetable oil

• ½ cup melted butter

• 1 cup brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Other Ingredients

• 2 cups grated carrots (fresh, not pre-shredded)

• ½ cup crushed pineapple (optional but adds moisture)

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• ½ cup raisins (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (optional for thinning)

Equipment Needed

• 2 mixing bowls

• Whisk & spatula

• Electric mixer

• Two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch pan

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Grater (for fresh carrots)

• Parchment paper

• Cooling rack

• Serrated knife (for leveling, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease your cake pans with butter or oil.

3. Line the base with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together:

   • Flour

   • Baking powder

   • Baking soda

   • Salt

   • Cinnamon

   • Nutmeg

   • Ginger

2. Ensure the mixture is evenly combined—this improves texture and flavor distribution.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, beat eggs, oil, and melted butter together.

2. Add brown sugar and white sugar; whisk until smooth.

3. Mix in the vanilla extract.

4. Stir until everything becomes well incorporated and glossy.

Step 4: Add Carrots & Optional Mix-ins

1. Fold in grated carrots.

2. If desired, add chopped nuts, raisins, or crushed pineapple.

3. Mix gently—this keeps the batter soft and airy.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

1. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture gradually.

2. Fold gently with a spatula; do not overmix.

3. Stop mixing once no flour pockets remain.

Step 6: Pour & Bake

1. Divide the batter evenly between cake pans.

2. Tap gently to release air bubbles.

3. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown.

4. Insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Step 7: Cool Completely

1. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.

2. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool fully before frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting Instructions

1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.

2. Add powdered sugar gradually and continue beating.

3. Mix in vanilla extract.

4. Add milk if needed for smoother consistency.

5. Refrigerate for 10 minutes before spreading.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

1. Place the first cake layer on a plate.

2. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting.

3. Place the second layer on top.

4. Frost the entire cake—top and sides.

5. Decorate with nuts or carrot shreds if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with a cup of tea or coffee.

• Add toasted nuts for crunch.

• Top with coconut flakes for extra flavor.

• Add a drizzle of caramel or honey.

Conclusion

Carrot cake is a dessert that remains timeless—comforting, moist, and wonderfully spiced. With this detailed guide, you now have all the steps, tips, and recipe essentials to create a moist, tender, and beautifully flavored carrot cake at home. Whether for celebrations, holidays, or simple gatherings, this cake will always be a crowd favorite. Paired with a silky cream cheese frosting, it delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture.