Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Moist and Flavorful – The combination of carrots, oil, and spices makes every bite tender and delicious.
Easy to Make – Simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients make this cake beginner-friendly.
Perfectly Spiced – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla enhances the flavor.
Creamy Frosting – The cream cheese icing is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for Easter, birthdays, or as an everyday dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Shredded carrots
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

Cream cheese
Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)

Directions

Make the Cake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch pan.
Mix dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Combine wet ingredients – In another bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fold in carrots and nuts – Gradually mix in shredded carrots, walnuts, and raisins if using.
Combine and bake – Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake for 30-35 minutes (round pans) or 40-45 minutes (9×13-inch pan), until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the cake – Let it cool completely before frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Icing:

Beat cream cheese and butter – In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
Add sugar and vanilla – Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add lemon juice if using.
Frost the cake – Spread an even layer of icing over the cake. If making a layer cake, frost between layers and on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Pineapple Carrot Cake – Add crushed pineapple for extra moisture and natural sweetness.
Coconut Carrot Cake – Stir shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist.
Spiced Carrot Cake – Add ginger and cloves for a deeper spice flavor.
Nut-Free Version – Skip the walnuts for an allergy-friendly option.
Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance, wrap it tightly, and frost it before serving.

Why is my carrot cake dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can cause dryness. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are best since pre-shredded ones are drier and less flavorful.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted butter, coconut oil, or applesauce for a different texture and flavor.

Can I make cupcakes instead?

Yes! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-22 minutes.

Does the cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting, store it in the fridge.

Can I reduce the sugar in the frosting?

Yes! Adjust the powdered sugar to taste for a less sweet frosting.

How do I make the frosting extra fluffy?

Beat it longer to incorporate more air, making it light and fluffy.

What’s the best way to frost a layer cake?

Chill the cake layers before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing in.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes! Adding white or dark chocolate chips can add an extra layer of sweetness.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is a classic dessert that’s rich, moist, and full of warm flavors. Whether for a holiday, special occasion, or a simple treat, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try different variations, enjoy it fresh or chilled, and savor every bite!