Moist and Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

Name: Moist and Easy Carrot Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated carrots; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the deliciousness of this Moist and Easy Carrot Cake, a perfect blend of warm spices and fresh carrots. This recipe guarantees a tender, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. Simple to make and utterly satisfying, this carrot cake is a must-try for dessert lovers.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-10-25T04:56:03.915Z

This carrot cake is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time. With its moist texture and sweet flavor, it brings joy to any gathering.

A Classic Dessert for Every Occasion

Carrot cake has long been a beloved dessert choice for parties, celebrations, and even casual family gatherings. Its unique combination of flavors—rich, warm spices paired with the natural sweetness of carrots—makes it a standout treat. This Moist and Easy Carrot Cake recipe embodies all the classic qualities, ensuring a dessert that is both delightful and approachable. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or simply looking to enjoy a comforting dessert at home, this cake fits the bill perfectly.

One of the great things about this cake is its versatility. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or elevate it further with cream cheese frosting, nuts, or even additional spices. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a fantastic addition to afternoon gatherings. Its moist texture and rich flavor make each bite a memorable experience, drawing compliments from all who try it.

Healthier Indulgence

While desserts are often seen as guilty pleasures, this carrot cake recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy dessert that also includes nutritious ingredients. Carrots are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin A, and provide natural sweetness to the cake. Additionally, you have the option to reduce the amount of sugar or substitute some with natural sweeteners for a lighter version without compromising the flavor.

Incorporating nuts not only enhances the flavor but also adds a crunch and boosts the nutritional profile with healthy fats and protein. Plus, using vegetable oil helps to maintain the cake’s moisture, making it tender and delicious without the need for excessive butter. This approach means you can enjoy slices of this cake with a little less guilt, making it a fantastic treat for health-conscious dessert lovers.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your carrot cake turns out perfectly, it’s important to accurately measure your ingredients. Use a kitchen scale if possible, as this helps achieve consistent results. Additionally, be sure to use fresh grated carrots for the best flavor and moisture—pre-packaged or canned carrots can sometimes compromise the cake's integrity. Grate your carrots finely for a smoother texture within the cake.

When mixing, avoid overmixing the batter. Once the dry ingredients are incorporated with the wet ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. This ensures a tender cake that isn’t tough. Lastly, always test for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cakes are ready to cool. With these tips, your journey to baking the ultimate moist carrot cake will be seamless and successful!

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups grated carrots
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the sugars, oil, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the grated carrots.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts if using.

Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Once cooled, prepare the frosting and spread it between the layers and on top of the cake.

Enjoy your delicious carrot cake with friends and family!

Storing Your Carrot Cake

After baking, allowing your carrot cake to cool completely is crucial before storage. Once cooled, it's best to refrigerate the cake, especially if frosted, to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out and store it in an airtight container. Under proper storage conditions, it can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven. This makes it easy to enjoy slices of this delectable carrot cake on demand!

Serving Suggestions

This Moist and Easy Carrot Cake is incredibly adaptable when it comes to serving suggestions. For an exciting twist, consider garnishing with additional toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra texture. You could also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for flavor enhancement. If you're currently in the mood for fruity flavors, add a layer of fresh fruits like pineapple or berries to the cake for complementing sweetness.

Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A warm cup of chai or spiced latte can perfectly complement the warm spices in the cake, making it an excellent choice for cozy gatherings or intimate celebrations with friends and family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts?

Yes, pecans or almonds can be used in place of walnuts.

→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as an alternative.