Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

There’s something timeless and comforting about a well-made carrot cake. Its moist, spiced layers and crunchy nuts, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, make it the star of any dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a celebration, or just a treat for yourself, this Classic Carrot Cake recipe is sure to impress. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to make, with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Best of all, the process is as enjoyable as the final product.

Let’s dive into this recipe, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and bake, with a step-by-step guide to ensure success.

Preparation Time:

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Baking: 30 minutes
• Cooling and Frosting: 40 minutes
  Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings:

Serves 8–10 generously.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 large eggs
• 175 g (¾ cup) brown sugar
• 75 g (⅓ cup) plain yogurt
• 120 ml (½ cup) vegetable oil
• 225 g (1 ½ cups) plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 225 g (2 cups) grated carrots
• 75 g (½ cup) chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans recommended)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond essence (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 200 g (1 cup) cream cheese, softened
• 100 g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 250 g (2 cups) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions 

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the yogurt and vegetable oil, and whisk until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond essence (if using).
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
5. Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
3. Decorate with additional chopped nuts, grated carrots, or a dusting of cinnamon, if desired.

Serving and Storage

Your classic carrot cake is ready to enjoy! Slice into generous portions and serve with a cup of tea or coffee. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings.

If there are leftovers (a rare occurrence!), store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

This Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the epitome of comfort and nostalgia. Its balance of sweet, nutty, and spiced flavors, paired with the tangy cream cheese frosting, makes it an all-time favorite dessert. By following these steps, even novice bakers can create a show-stopping cake that rivals those from the best bakeries.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your mixing bowl, and get baking. This recipe is guaranteed to fill your home with warmth, love, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cake.