Print

Carrot Cake Recipe

Slice of carrot cake recipe with cream cheese frosting on a dessert plate

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A soft and moist carrot cake recipe with warm cinnamon, shredded carrots, and creamy cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups finely shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, optional

Frosting

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans.
  • Whisk flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
  • Whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl.
  • Stir in shredded carrots and drained pineapple.
  • Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients just until combined.
  • Stir in nuts if using.
  • Divide batter between pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
  • Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then cool fully on a wire rack.
  • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  • Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, then beat until fluffy.
  • Frost the cooled cake layers and serve.

Notes

  • Finely shred the carrots for the best crumb.
  • Drain the pineapple well before adding it.
  • Chill the frosted cake for cleaner slices.