Why Make This Recipe
This Best Ever Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not just any dessert. It’s a delightful blend of warm spices and fresh carrots, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy touch that really brings the cake to life. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this carrot cake is sure to please everyone.
How to Make Best Ever Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (for the cake)
- 3 carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for the frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Then stir in the vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, raisins, and crushed pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream or milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Once the cake is cool, frost it with the cream cheese frosting. Optionally, garnish with extra pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Serve at room temperature with tea or coffee.
How to Serve Best Ever Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serve the cake sliced, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. This makes for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert after dinner. You can also add some extra chopped pecans or fruits for a nice touch.
How to Store Best Ever Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Best Ever Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Ensure your carrots are freshly grated to maintain their moisture and flavor.
- For added sweetness, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a little more!
Variation
You can add crushed pineapple to the batter for extra sweetness and moisture. Additionally, try swapping the pecans for walnuts if you prefer their flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.
2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix that is designed for baking.
3. Can I make this carrot cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge, frosting it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.