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The Ultimate Moist Carrot Cake Recipe with Tangy Cream Cheese Frosting

Close-up of a thick slice of moist carrot cake recipe with three layers of cake and cream cheese frosting.
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Bake the best homemade carrot cake that stays incredibly moist and flavorful. This classic recipe features warm spices and is topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any family gathering or special occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 4–5 medium carrots)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • For the Frosting: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and vegetable oil until combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and raisins, if using.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  10. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
  11. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  12. Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the first layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Notes

  • For the moist carrot cake recipe, use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best texture.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half the vegetable oil with applesauce.
  • Chill the finished cake for 30 minutes before slicing for easier serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheffinity.com/carrot-cake-recipe-moist-ultimate-bake/