Classic Simple Carrot Cake Dessert
This classic carrot cake recipe is simple to make and yields a moist, flavorful dessert. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it's perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- large bowls
- whisk
- spatula
- wire rack
- electric mixer
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots about 3-4 medium carrots
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream optional, for consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mixing & Baking
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the grated carrots and the optional walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer comes out clean.
Frosting & Serving
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before proceeding.
- For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream until the desired consistency is reached.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then slice and serve.
Notes
Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting. Do not overmix the cake batter, as this can result in a dry cake. For best results, chill the frosted cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.