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Homemade Carrot Cake

Homemade carrot cake is a dessert that brings comfort, joy, and a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. With its moist crumb, delicious spices, and creamy frosting, it’s no wonder this cake has remained a favorite for generations.
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Course Appetizer
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • For the cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 ¼ cups vegetable oil
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups finely grated carrots about 4 medium-sized carrots
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
  • 1 cup raisins optional
  • For the cream cheese frosting:
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. If you want to make it easier to remove the cakes, line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper.
  • Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  • Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Step 5: Add Carrots, Nuts, and Raisins
  • Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts or pecans (if using), and raisins (if using). Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Step 6: Bake the Cake
  • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  • Step 7: Cool the Cakes
  • Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  • Step 9: Frost the Cake
  • Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake. Place the second cake on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. If desired, you can decorate the top with extra chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a few whole carrots for a festive look.
  • Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
  • Let the cake sit for about 15-20 minutes to set the frosting, then slice and serve. Enjoy the moist, flavorful layers of this homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting!
Keyword Homemade Carrot Cake
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