Looking for a carrot cake recipe that’s super moist, easy to make, and packed with warm spices and fresh carrots? This is it! Whether you want to bake a show-stopping birthday cake or a simple afternoon tea treat, this homemade carrot cake is sure to become your new go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Carrot Cake Recipe
- Super moist & tender: Thanks to freshly grated carrots and oil
- Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy, just pantry staples
- Perfectly spiced: With cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger
- Versatile: Bake as a layered cake, sheet cake, or even cupcakes
- Topped with dreamy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients for the Perfect Carrot Cake
For the carrot cake
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (220g) finely grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained, optional for extra moisture)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting
- 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Carrot Cake: Step-By-Step
1. Prepare your pans
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans, or a 9×13-inch baking pan for a sheet cake.
2. Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Mix wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine & add carrots
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, pineapple, and nuts if using.
5. Bake
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes for layer cakes or 35-40 minutes for a sheet cake, until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting for Carrot Cake
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then the vanilla, and beat until fluffy.
How to Frost & Decorate
- Spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon.
- For a fancy look, pipe little rosettes or swirl patterns.
Carrot Cake Recipe FAQs
Can I make carrot cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day. Store it covered in the fridge.
Can I freeze carrot cake?
Absolutely. Freeze the cake layers (unfrosted) wrapped well for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready.
What makes carrot cake moist?
Using oil, brown sugar, and fresh finely grated carrots ensures a super moist carrot cake.