Name: Layered Carrot Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cup vegetable oil (540 ml); 3 cups sugar (600 g); 6 eggs; 3 cups all purpose flour (360 g); 1 tablespoon baking powder (15 ml); 1 tablespoon baking soda (15 ml); 1 teaspoon salt (5 ml); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (15 ml); 2 teaspoons ground cardamom (10 ml); 4.5 cups grated carrots (1 32 oz bag of carrots before peeling); 1.5 cup chopped nuts or unsweetened coconut (optional); 1.5 small can crushed pineapple lightly drained (12 oz or 1.5 8 oz cans); 2 sticks butter (226 g or 1 cup), softened; 2 sticks cream cheese (452 g or 2 cups), softened; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, 5 ml); 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (15 ml); 6-8 cups powdered sugar (depending on desired stiffness)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 240 reviews

If you are searching for a delightful dessert that combines moistness, spice, and a creamy frosting that melts in your mouth, this Layered Carrot Cake Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Bursting with finely grated carrots, warm spices, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake offers layers of flavor and texture that are perfect for any celebration or just a cozy afternoon treat. Every slice tells a story of comfort, sweetness, and a little bit of something special that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Three round, white pans filled with smooth, orange batter sit on a white marbled surface. The batter appears even and creamy with tiny bubbles on the surface. Two whole fresh carrots with their tops removed lie beside the top left pan, contrasting the soft orange batter with their vibrant, slightly rough texture. The pans are arranged close to each other, forming a triangular shape on the clean white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret to an unforgettable carrot cake lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of moisture, sweetness, and spice, making the preparation both fun and rewarding.

2 1/4 cups vegetable oil: Provides richness and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
3 cups sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that tender crumb.
6 eggs: Acts as a binder to hold everything together with a nice texture.
3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives this cake its structure and body.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
1 tablespoon baking soda: Adds lift and works alongside the baking powder.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and classic spice flavor.
2 teaspoons ground cardamom: Adds a unique, aromatic twist to the spice blend.
4.5 cups grated carrots: The star ingredient that keeps this cake moist and flavorful.
1.5 cup chopped nuts or unsweetened coconut (optional): Offers extra texture and a lovely crunch.
1.5 small cans crushed pineapple, lightly drained: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture.
2 sticks butter: Essential for the rich and creamy frosting.
2 sticks cream cheese: Creates the signature tangy frosting that pairs beautifully with the spices.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Intensifies the frosting’s flavor.
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Provides a delicate fragrance that elevates the frosting.
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste: Adds deep, natural vanilla flavor.
6-8 cups powdered sugar: Adjust quantity to control frosting sweetness and thickness.

How to Make Layered Carrot Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, ensuring easy release and neat layers later on.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and sugar. This combination forms the moist, sweet foundation of the cake. Next, add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until incorporated; overmixing can make your cake tough, so be gentle!

Step 4: Fold in Carrots and Pineapple

Now the fun part: stir in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple along with the optional chopped nuts or coconut if you like extra texture. These ingredients make this Layered Carrot Cake Recipe uniquely moist and bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. Since every oven varies, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; when it comes out clean, your layers are perfectly baked.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cakes cool, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add salt, almond extract if using, and vanilla bean paste. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency—smooth, rich, and ready to be spread lovingly between each cake layer.

How to Serve Layered Carrot Cake Recipe

A three-layer carrot cake with a light brown, moist texture is being lifted by a knife. Each layer is separated by a creamy beige frosting with small specks, and the whole cake is covered in the same frosting. Small, bright orange carrot-shaped decorations with green leaves are placed evenly on the top and sides of the white frosted cake. The cake sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, garnish your cake with a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans, a few delicate carrot curls made with a vegetable peeler, or even a dusting of cinnamon. These small touches bring a burst of visual appeal and a hint of crunch.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A hot cup of spiced chai tea or coffee also complements the warm spices of the Layered Carrot Cake Recipe perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, consider serving individual mini versions of this cake in glass jars layered with extra cream cheese frosting and crushed nuts. Alternatively, create beautiful cake slices arranged with fresh berries for a colorful display. The possibilities to elevate this classic are endless.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Layered Carrot Cake Recipe leftovers keep wonderfully well. Wrap your cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This ensures the frosting stays fresh and the cake moist.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual layers separately in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. You can freeze the cake layers for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the fridge before assembling with frosting.

Reheating

Since this cake shines when moist and cool, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’d like to warm a slice, pop it in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds, but avoid heating the whole cake to preserve the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I substitute nuts for other ingredients?

Absolutely! If you prefer or have allergies, try swapping nuts with shredded coconut or leaving them out entirely. The cake remains delicious and moist thanks to the carrots and pineapple.

How long does this Layered Carrot Cake Recipe take to bake?

Expect about 45 minutes baking time per batch of layers. Depending on your oven, it could vary slightly, so always test with a toothpick to be sure.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, and be sure to check that your other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I make this Layered Carrot Cake Recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, try substituting eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, use a plant-based oil and vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delightful.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a quick stir before using again to refresh its smoothness.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got this incredible Layered Carrot Cake Recipe in your culinary toolbox, I encourage you to dive in and create a cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just because, it’s a dessert that brings joy with every bite. Happy baking and even happier eating!