Here’s a delicious recipe for what might just be the “Best Carrot Cake Ever”:
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 5-6 medium carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For garnish (optional):
- Chopped nuts
- Shredded coconut
- Carrot curls
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the cake 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 easier removal.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, chopped nuts (if using), and shredded coconut (if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Bake the cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Assemble the cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the first cake layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- Garnish the cake (optional):
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the top of the frosted cake, if desired.
- Add carrot curls or decorations for an extra special touch.
- Chill and serve:
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to set.
- Slice and serve the Best Carrot Cake Ever, and enjoy!
This carrot cake is moist, flavorful, and loaded with delicious ingredients. It’s perfect for special occasions or anytime you’re craving a slice of homemade goodness!