Carrot Cake

Introduction

There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked carrot cake wafting through the kitchen. For Ella Chef, it all started as a family tradition passed down from her grandmother, who believed that carrots could bring joy to any dessert. Over the years, Ella perfected this recipe—balancing the sweetness of the carrots, the warmth of cinnamon, and the richness of cream cheese frosting. This carrot cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a comforting slice of nostalgia that embodies home, love, and the art of simple baking. Perfect for gatherings or quiet afternoons with tea.

Classic Carrot Cake

A moist, spiced carrot cake layered with rich cream cheese frosting—an irresistible homemade favorite by Ella Chef.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 10 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Cake Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1.5 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs room temperature
• 2 cups grated carrots fresh
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Cake pans
• Spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, and eggs until creamy. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
4. Fold in grated carrots, pineapple, and walnuts. Divide batter evenly into prepared pans.
5. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
6. For frosting: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
7. Spread frosting between layers and over the top. Garnish with chopped walnuts or carrot shavings.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 310mgPotassium: 260mgFiber: 2gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 4500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Best served chilled or at room temperature.

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How to Make the Recipe

Begin by preparing your workspace with all ingredients measured and ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring your cake pans are greased and lined with parchment. In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures even flavor distribution. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth and creamy—this creates the base of your batter. Gradually fold in the dry mixture until no flour streaks remain. Gently incorporate grated carrots, pineapple, and walnuts for texture and moisture.

Pour the batter evenly into your pans and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes rest for 10 minutes before removing from pans, then cool completely. For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, whipping until light and fluffy. Layer the cakes with generous frosting in between, finishing with a smooth top and sides. Garnish with crushed walnuts or shaved carrots for an elegant touch. This method creates a moist, perfectly balanced carrot cake every time.

Conclusion

Carrot cake is a timeless dessert that combines rustic charm with indulgent flavor. From its moist crumb to the tangy cream cheese frosting, each bite offers warmth and comfort. Ella Chef believes that baking should be an act of love—and this cake embodies just that. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply craving something sweet, this carrot cake will fill your home with joy, delicious aromas, and the simple pleasure of homemade goodness.