Carrot cake is a classic dessert loved for its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea or coffee. If you’ve been craving a homemade carrot cake that’s simple, flavorful, and foolproof, it’s time to try this carrot cake recipe today!
Whether you’re baking in the United States, the United Kingdom, or Canada, this recipe is easy to follow and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Why You Should Try This Carrot Cake Recipe
Carrot cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s:
Moist and flavorful: Carrots add natural sweetness and moisture.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and steps make it beginner-friendly.
Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or pineapple to suit your taste.
Perfect with frosting: Cream cheese frosting balances the sweet and spicy flavors.
Great for any occasion: From casual desserts to special celebrations.
With this recipe, you don’t need to be a professional baker to enjoy a bakery-style carrot cake at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
½ cup (120 ml) applesauce or plain yogurt
2 cups (200 g) grated carrots
½ cup (50 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
½ cup (80 g) raisins or crushed pineapple (optional)
For the Frosting
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients are simple, accessible, and result in a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until smooth. Add oil and applesauce (or yogurt) and mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
Step 5: Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients
Fold in grated carrots, nuts, raisins, or pineapple. These add texture, flavor, and natural sweetness.
Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting evenly on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. Optional: Sprinkle with chopped nuts for decoration.
Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake
Grate carrots finely: This ensures even distribution and a moist texture.
Do not overmix: Overmixing flour can make the cake dense.
Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs, butter, and cream cheese mix better when not cold.
Customize your mix-ins: Nuts, raisins, or pineapple enhance flavor but are optional.
Cool completely before frosting: Frosting a warm cake will melt it.
Store properly: Keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days, covered to prevent drying.
Variations You Can Try
Vegan Carrot Cake
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Use plant-based yogurt and margarine instead of butter.
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum for structure.
Spice It Up
Add ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a warming flavor profile.
Mini Carrot Cupcakes
Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes for single-serve treats.
These variations make it easy to adapt this carrot cake recipe for different dietary needs or occasions.
Serving Suggestions
Classic slice: Serve plain or with cream cheese frosting.
Afternoon tea: Pair with a cup of black tea or coffee.
Dessert platter: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Celebrations: Decorate with nuts, shredded coconut, or edible flowers for birthdays and parties.
No matter how you serve it, this carrot cake is sure to impress.
Health Benefits of Carrot Cake
While carrot cake is indulgent, it also has some nutritional perks:
Carrots: High in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins A and K.
Nuts: Provide healthy fats and protein.
Applesauce or yogurt: Adds moisture and can reduce the amount of oil needed.
By making it at home, you control the sweetness and ingredients, creating a slightly healthier treat than store-bought versions.
Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for a moist, flavorful, and easy dessert, it’s time to try this carrot cake recipe today! With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and tips to customize your cake, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you live in the United States, the United Kingdom, or Canada, you’ll enjoy a homemade carrot cake that rivals bakery versions.
From casual tea-time snacks to special celebrations, this carrot cake will become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your grater, mix your batter, and discover the joy of baking a delicious, classic carrot cake today!