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Carrot Cake Recipe: 9 Simple Tips for a Soft, Moist Cake

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

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A soft carrot cake recipe with fresh grated carrots, warm spice, and smooth cream cheese frosting for a classic homemade dessert.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  • Heat the oven to 350°F.
  • Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  • Whisk the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  • In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil together.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, then whisk in the vanilla.
  • Stir in the grated carrots and nuts, if using.
  • Add the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
  • Divide the batter between the pans.
  • Bake for 28 to 34 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool the cakes fully.
  • Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  • Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, then beat until creamy.
  • Frost the cake layers and serve.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture.
  • Cool the cake fully before frosting.
  • Store the frosted cake in the refrigerator.