Traditional Carrot Cake: A Moist & Spiced Classic with Creamy Frosting 🥕🍰✨
1. Introduction
Nothing beats the comforting taste of a homemade Traditional Carrot Cake. This beloved dessert combines moist, spiced cake layers with sweet grated carrots and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped in a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet from our dessert collection, this Traditional Carrot Cake recipe is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
2. Ingredients
To make the perfect Traditional Carrot Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients gathered from your pantry and fridge. This recipe is part of our extensive baking recipes collection that includes everything from simple cookies to elaborate cakes.
2 cups all-purpose flour – for a light and fluffy texture
2 cups grated carrots – the star ingredient for moisture and sweetness
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – balances the spices perfectly
8 oz cream cheese, softened – the base of the frosting
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – adds richness
4 cups powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens
1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances flavor
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Carrot Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts until well combined.
Step 2: Mix Until Smooth
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, blend the batter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well incorporated. This ensures an even texture in your Traditional Carrot Cake. For more baking tips, check out our Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie recipe which shares similar mixing techniques.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between them and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. While waiting, you might want to browse our Southern Style Cornbread Poppers for another delicious baked treat.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. For more creamy dessert ideas, try our Strawberry Ice Cream recipe.
4. Tips for the Best Traditional Carrot Cake
Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture.
Toast the walnuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
5. Variations
Add raisins or pineapple for extra sweetness and texture.
Try pecans instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Make cupcakes for individual servings – perfect for parties alongside our Classic Deviled Eggs.
6. Serving Suggestions
This Traditional Carrot Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra touch, garnish with additional chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It makes a great dessert after our Delicious Glazed Ham or Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls for a complete meal experience.
7. Storage Instructions
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free version. For more gluten-free baking inspiration, check out this alternative carrot cake recipe from our friends at The View From Great Island.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Freshly grated carrots work best, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.
9. Conclusion
This Traditional Carrot Cake recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. With its perfect balance of spices, moist texture, and creamy frosting, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because, this cake delivers timeless flavor in every bite. Happy baking! 🎂🥕
This Traditional Carrot Cake is a moist, spiced classic with sweet grated carrots, crunchy walnuts, and rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence, this timeless recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour – for a light and fluffy texture
2 cups grated carrots – the star ingredient for moisture and sweetness
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – balances the spices perfectly
1 cup vegetable oil – keeps the cake ultra-moist
4 large eggs – binds the batter together
1 cup chopped walnuts – adds a delightful crunch
2 tsp baking powder – ensures a perfect rise
1 tsp baking soda – helps with texture
1 tsp cinnamon – essential spice for warmth
½ tsp nutmeg – enhances the flavor
½ tsp salt – balances the sweetness
1 tsp vanilla extract – adds depth to the flavor
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened – the base of the frosting
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – adds richness
4 cups powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens
1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances flavor
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl.
In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture.
Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts until well combined. Blend batter for 2 minutes until smooth.
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide batter evenly and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
Frost the top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and cover the entire cake with remaining frosting.
Notes
Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture.
Toast the walnuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
