Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this best-ever carrot cake! Loaded with moist, tender crumb and aromatic spices, this cake is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The star of the show is the luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a rich, creamy finish, perfectly complementing the warmth of cinnamon and fresh carrots. Whether it's a family gathering, a birthday, or just a special treat for yourself, this carrot cake is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
250g all-purpose flour
200g granulated sugar
150g brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
240ml vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
300g grated carrots
100g chopped pecans (optional)
For Cream Cheese Frosting:
250g cream cheese, softened
115g unsalted butter, softened
400g powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare two 23cm (9-inch) round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well blended.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the vegetable oil, add the eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate Carrots and Nuts
Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Spread a layer of the cream cheese frosting over the top of one of the cake layers. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 9: Garnish (Optional)
If desired, garnish the cake with additional chopped pecans on top for added texture and decoration.
Step 10: Serve
Slice the cake and enjoy your delicious homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting!
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Grating Carrots
For best results, use freshly grated carrots. Avoid pre-packaged grated carrots as they may contain preservatives that can affect the texture and flavor.
Customization
Feel free to customize the cake by adding raisins or substituting walnuts for pecans if you prefer!
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure that the eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture in both the cake and frosting.
Storage Instructions
To store the carrot cake:
Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Place any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For serving the carrot cake:
Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee or hot tea to enhance the flavors. Consider garnishing the cake with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for presentation. The cake also makes a delightful dessert for celebrations or potluck gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, based on 12 servings):
Calories: 400
Total Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 33g
Protein: 4g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need substitutions:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace granulated and brown sugar for a more natural sweetener.
- Instead of vegetable oil, you can use melted coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter version.
- For a dairy-free version of the frosting, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter.
- Ground ginger can be added for a different spice flavor in addition to or instead of nutmeg.
- Chopped walnuts can be used in place of pecans for another nutty flavor option.
Cook Techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
To ensure the best results, use a kitchen scale for measuring flour, sugar, and other dry ingredients. This will provide precise amounts, crucial for the texture of the cake.
Mixing the Batter
When mixing wet and dry ingredients, combine them just until no dry flour is visible. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture.
Folding in Ingredients
When adding grated carrots and pecans, gently fold them into the batter with a spatula. This method maintains the airiness of the batter.
Baking the Cake
Preheat the oven fully to 175°C before placing the cake pans inside. Position the pans in the center of the oven for even baking.
Testing for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating that the cake is done.
Cooling the Cake
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Making Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth before adding powdered sugar. This helps achieve a creamy texture without lumps.
Frosting the Cake
When frosting the cake, place a dollop of frosting between the layers and spread it evenly. Use a spatula to ensure smooth sides and top.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the cake denser.
How should I store leftover carrot cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can use canola oil, melted coconut oil, or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for vegetable oil.
Can I leave out the nuts?
Absolutely! You can omit the nuts if you're allergic or prefer a nut-free cake.
How can I make the cake dairy-free?
To make the cake dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives and ensure your other ingredients are free from dairy.
Is it necessary to use freshly grated carrots?
Freshly grated carrots are recommended as they provide better moisture and flavor than pre-packaged or cooked carrots.
Can I add other spices to the cake?
Yes, you can add spices like ginger or clove for additional flavor, but adjust the quantities to your taste.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of spices with the natural sweetness of carrots. Each slice is not only moist and rich but also beautifully topped with a creamy frosting that elevates this classic dessert. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy gathering, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Carrot Cake Cupcakes
Transform the cake into individual servings by baking it in cupcake tins. Top with cream cheese frosting and garnish with mini pecans for a fun twist.
Carrot Cake Trifle
Layer pieces of the carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and whipped cream in a glass bowl for a beautiful trifle dessert that showcases the textures and flavors.
Pineapple Carrot Cake
Add crushed pineapple to the batter for an extra burst of flavor and moisture. The tropical taste pairs wonderfully with the spices in the cake.
Chocolate Carrot Cake
Mix in some cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate twist. Complement it with a chocolate cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
Spiced Carrot Cake with Raisins
Include plump raisins or sultanas in the batter to add a burst of sweetness and chewiness that contrasts nicely with the spiced cake.
Vegan Carrot Cake
Substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal and use a plant-based cream cheese for frosting to enjoy a vegan version of this delightful cake.
Carrot Cake with Citrus Zest
Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the overall flavor of the cake.
Carrot Cake Pancakes
Adapt the flavors into a breakfast treat by turning the cake recipe into pancakes—perfect for a special brunch, topped with cream cheese syrup.
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