Description

This homemade carrot cake layer cake is a game-changer. It is incredibly moist, thanks to the natural sweetness and moisture from fresh carrots. The secret to the deep, rich flavor is the combination of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, paired with the earthy crunch of toasted nuts. It is the perfect recipe to prove that carrot cake can be a delicious treat for everyone.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
3 cups finely grated fresh carrots
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and oil together until smooth.
Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and the chopped nuts by hand.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Assemble: Place one cake layer on your plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the top. Garnish with extra toasted nuts and orange zest.

Notes

Ensure your cakes are completely cool before you start frosting, or the cream cheese will melt. If you want to save time, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them at room temperature. Keep any assembled leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 5g