Introduction

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is a timeless dessert that combines moist, spiced cake layers with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. Bursting with grated carrots, warm spices, and optional nuts or pineapple, this cake is both flavorful and comforting. The cream cheese icing perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, making each bite indulgent yet perfectly harmonious.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special gathering. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, often layered with thick frosting and garnished with toasted walnuts or carrot decorations. Its tender, moist texture and warm aroma make it a favorite for both family and friends.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort dessert — moist, flavorful, and aromatic. The combination of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with grated carrots creates a depth of flavor that is cozy and inviting. The cream cheese icing adds a tangy richness that elevates the cake without overpowering the delicate carrot flavor. It’s a cake that feels homemade yet special enough for celebrations.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Comfort Dessert: Rich, moist, and flavorful.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet cake paired with tangy cream cheese icing.
• Versatile: Ideal for birthdays, Easter, Thanksgiving, or afternoon tea.
• Textural Delight: Moist cake with optional crunch from nuts or coconut.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by adults and kids alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Baking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Cooling & Icing Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 12–16 slices
• Calories: Approximately 350–400 kcal per slice (with frosting)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Classic Bakery

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups finely grated carrots
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
• ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped nuts
• Grated carrot decorations
• Cinnamon dusting

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Preheat oven and prepare cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; fold in carrots and optional add-ins.
4. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool completely.
6. Prepare cream cheese icing.
7. Frost cake layers and garnish.
8. Slice and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, beat together sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Fold in grated carrots, nuts, pineapple, and coconut if using.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Icing

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until desired sweetness and consistency.
3. Beat in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Step 7: Assemble and Frost Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese icing evenly over the top.
3. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
4. Garnish with chopped nuts, grated carrot, or a dusting of cinnamon.

Step 8: Serve

• Slice into 12–16 pieces and serve at room temperature.
• Perfect alongside coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Recipe Tips

• Grate Carrots Finely: Ensures even moisture and tenderness.
• Cool Cakes Completely: Prevents frosting from melting.
• Optional Add-ins: Nuts, pineapple, or coconut add texture and flavor.
• Check Doneness: Toothpick should come out clean but cake remains moist.
• Cream Cheese Icing: Beat until smooth and fluffy for best spreadability.

Variations

• Chocolate Carrot Cake: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the flour mixture.
• Coconut Carrot Cake: Use shredded coconut in the batter and icing.
• Nutty Carrot Cake: Add 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to batter and garnish.
• Pineapple-Carrot Cake: Fold in ½ cup crushed pineapple for added moisture and flavor.
• Spiced Cream Cheese Icing: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or pumpkin spice to icing for a seasonal twist.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep frosted cake in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cakes in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling racks
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Spatula for frosting

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake 1–2 days in advance and frost before serving.

Q2: Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Yes, but ensure they are finely shredded and well-drained.

Q3: Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?
Yes, bake in lined muffin tins for 20–25 minutes for individual servings.

Q4: Can I reduce sugar?
You can reduce granulated sugar slightly, but the cake may be less moist and sweet.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is a classic dessert that balances tender, spiced cake with rich, tangy frosting. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or cozy afternoons, this cake delivers flavor, texture, and visual appeal in every slice. Its versatility, warmth, and comforting aroma make it a must-try for anyone who loves traditional, flavorful desserts.