Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 300g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 300g (1 1/2 cups) granulated sugar
- 200g (1 cup) packed light brown sugar
- 240ml (1 cup) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 400g (3 cups) grated carrots
- 100g (1 cup) chopped walnuts (optional)
- 10g (2 tsp) baking powder
- 5g (1 tsp) baking soda
- 2g (1/2 tsp) salt
- 5g (1 tsp) ground cinnamon
- 1g (1/4 tsp) ground nutmeg
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 115g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 480g (4 cups) powdered sugar
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- 2g (1/8 tsp) salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake. Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate with additional chopped walnuts or grated carrot if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy. Allow the frosted cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve slices of this luscious carrot cake at room temperature and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and textures!
Conclusion: Indulging in a slice of this Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a luxurious experience that highlights the harmony of flavors and textures in every bite. Its moist crumb laced with aromatic spices and the creamy tang of the frosting truly make it irresistible. Whether for a special occasion or a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress and bring joy to anyone who tastes it. Enjoy this dessert with your loved ones and make it a cherished part of your dessert repertoire!
