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Classic Carrot Cake with Creamy Frosting

A moist and flavorful carrot cake topped with creamy frosting, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil (or a mild-flavored oil of your choice)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups finely grated carrots (about 5 medium-sized carrots)
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) Omit for nut-free version
For the Creamy Frosting
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil and eggs together until thoroughly combined. Stir in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. If using, fold in the chopped nuts gently into the batter.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. For the creamy frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Add vanilla extract if desired.
  2. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides.
Serving
  1. Cut yourself a generous slice and enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Notes

For nut-free, omit nuts and consider adding raisins. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.