Recipe for Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Recipe for Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
• For Garnish:
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds (or your choice of nuts)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
   • Fold in the grated carrots, chopped nuts, and raisins.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
   • Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy and spreadable.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • If using two pans, place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting over the top, then top with the second cake layer.
   • Spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
   • Sprinkle chopped almonds over the top.
5. Serve:
   • Chill the cake for about an hour to set the frosting before serving.

This carrot cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a moist, flavorful dessert with a rich and creamy frosting. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!