Certainly! Carrot cake is a classic and delicious dessert with a moist and flavorful crumb. Here’s a simple recipe for making a homemade carrot cake:
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 3-4 medium carrots)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (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
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Carrot Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix the Batter:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple (if using), and chopped nuts (if using).
- Divide Batter and Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar gradually, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Optional Garnish:
- Optionally, garnish the cake with additional chopped nuts or shredded carrots.
- Chill and Serve:
- Chill the carrot cake in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld, and the frosting sets.
Enjoy your delicious homemade carrot cake! This recipe is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you’re in the mood for a delightful and moist dessert.