Carrot Cake

This Ultimate Carrot Cake is everything a great carrot cake should be: incredibly moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. Packed with shredded carrots, crunchy nuts, and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s a tried-and-true classic perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a comforting homemade dessert.

Slice of classic carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and walnuts.
Clock symbol indicating preparation, baking, and chilling times

Prep – 20 minutes
Bake – 40 minutes

Slice of cake with frosting, representing a dessert.

10-12 slices
Ingredients

Cake:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (220g) brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups (300g) grated carrots
  • 1 cup (100g) chopped walnuts or pecans

Frosting:

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease two 9-inch pans.
  • Mix dry ingredients. In another bowl, mix sugars and oil. Add eggs one at a time.
  • Fold dry into wet. Stir in carrots and nuts.
  • Divide batter between pans and bake 35–40 minutes.
  • For frosting, beat butter and cream cheese, add powdered sugar and vanilla. Frost cooled cakes.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use freshly grated carrots (not pre-shredded) for the best texture and moisture.

  • Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.

  • For layer cakes, chill each layer before assembling to reduce crumb transfer.

  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days — it gets even better on day two!

  • Garnish with crushed walnuts, pecans, or a light dusting of cinnamon for added flair.

  • Pair with a cup of coffee, spiced chai, or a cold glass of milk for the perfect match.

Related Recipes

  • Vegan Lemon Olive Oil Cake – A lighter citrus cake with a similarly moist texture.
  • Strawberry Shortcake – Another soft and layered dessert, ideal for spring and summer gatherings.
  • Fudgy Brownies – Rich, dense, and irresistibly chocolatey, these fudgy brownies boast a gooey center and a crackly top — perfect for any chocolate lover.