Easter is the perfect time to indulge in a delicious, festive dessert, and what better way to celebrate than with a classic carrot cake? Moist, flavorful, and topped with smooth cream cheese frosting, this carrot cake is a sweet treat that will wow your guests and add a little extra spring to your celebration!
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium-sized carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Make the Carrot Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually fold in the grated carrots, pineapple, nuts, and coconut, if using.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until fluffy and well combined.
5. Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second cake layer, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
6. Decorate and Serve
For an extra festive touch, decorate the top with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even edible flowers. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Easter carrot cake!