Introduction:
Carrot cake is a beloved dessert known for its moist and flavorful crumb, rich spices, and sweet cream cheese frosting. This classic cake is a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making it a favorite for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. Follow this recipe to create your own homemade carrot cake that will delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones.
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Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups grated carrots (about 3-4 medium carrots)
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
In another large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, chopped nuts (if using), and raisins (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
Optional: Garnish the top of the cake with additional chopped nuts or grated carrots, if desired.
Slice and serve this classic carrot cake, and enjoy the moist, flavorful goodness with every bite!
Conclusion:
Indulge in the warmth and sweetness of this homemade carrot cake, featuring moist layers packed with grated carrots, pineapple, nuts, and raisins, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Whether enjoyed for a special occasion or as a comforting treat, this classic dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its rich flavor and irresistible texture, this carrot cake is a true delight for the senses. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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