Carrot cake is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a moist and tender cake that's loaded with sweet carrots, warm spices, and crunchy nuts. And what better way to top off this cake than with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting?
Ingredients:
For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
2 cups grated carrots
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 cup raisins (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth. Gradually whisk in the vegetable oil until the mixture is thick and pale.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth. Fold in the grated carrots, chopped nuts, and raisins (if using).
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until the frosting is thick and fluffy.
Place one cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next celebration or special occasion. It's sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!
