If you have a craving for a dessert that’s both cozy and fresh, this Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless treat combining moist, warmly spiced cake with a luscious, tangy frosting that balances perfectly. The grated carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, while the cream cheese frosting brings a velvety richness that makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a sweet moment to yourself, this carrot cake is wonderfully easy to make and absolutely delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this carrot cake stand out is how simple yet essential its ingredients are. Each element plays an important role—flour and leavening for structure, cinnamon for that classic warming spice, and cream cheese for a creamy finish that makes the frosting unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender crumb texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.
- Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises just right and stays fluffy.
- Baking soda: Reacts with the acidic ingredients for extra lift and lightness.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that signature warm spice, so important to classic carrot cake flavor.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender throughout.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Grated carrots: The star of the show, delivering natural sweetness, moisture, and a subtle earthiness.
- Chopped walnuts (optional): Add crunch and a delightful nutty contrast.
- Cream cheese: The hero of the frosting, lending a tangy, creamy finish.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the frosting perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Amplifies flavor depth in the frosting.
- Milk (optional): Adjusts frosting consistency to your liking.
How to Make Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your pans and preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure your cakes come out beautifully without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This uniform blend sets the stage for an even crumb and balanced flavor throughout the cake.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients and carrots
In a separate bowl, mix vegetable oil, eggs, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts if you’re using them. This step merges moisture and texture, making the cake irresistibly soft inside with just the right crunch.
Step 4: Bring the batter together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, then gently fold everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light, fluffy, and perfectly moist with each bite.
Step 5: Bake the cake layers
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops lightly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, meaning your carrot cake is baked to tender perfection.
Step 6: Make the cream cheese frosting
While the cakes cool, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk, if needed, to get that perfect spreadable consistency that’s a dream to work with.
Step 7: Frost and assemble the cake
Once your cake layers are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer generously. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake as you like—whether that’s just the top, the sides, or a full creamy coat. Your Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or toasted coconut flakes on top for a delightful crunch and extra visual appeal. You can also add a few carrot ribbons or edible flowers for a fresh and elegant touch that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This carrot cake pairs spectacularly with a cup of fragrant coffee or chai tea, which complements the warmth of the cinnamon. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also elevate your dessert experience to the next level.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the carrot cake in individual glass jars layered with frosting and cake crumbs. You could also cut it into bite-sized squares and present them on a beautiful platter, making it perfect for parties or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover carrot cake keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the freshness of both the cake and the cream cheese frosting, so every slice tastes as good as the first.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe later, wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.
Reheating
Carrot cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, especially with cream cheese frosting. If you prefer it warmer, gently heat a single slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid heating the whole cake as it can affect texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with something else?
Yes! You can use melted coconut oil, butter, or even applesauce for a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Just keep in mind that swapping oil for butter will make the cake a bit denser and richer.
Do I have to use walnuts in this recipe?
Not at all. Walnuts add a lovely crunch and earthiness but are completely optional. Feel free to omit them or replace with pecans, chopped pineapple, or raisins if you like.
How do I make sure my carrot cake is moist?
Grating fresh carrots carefully and not overmixing the batter are key tips. The oil in the recipe also helps keep it moist. Baking just until a toothpick comes out clean is important to avoid drying it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a good-quality gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How long does the cream cheese frosting stay fresh?
Keep the frosted cake refrigerated, and the cream cheese frosting will stay fresh for about 4-5 days. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is such a gem to have in your baking repertoire. It’s approachable, comforting, and infinitely adaptable to your personal tastes or season. When you slice into it and taste the perfect blend of sweet spices, moist cake, and creamy frosting, you’ll see why it’s a perennial favorite. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own little slice of happiness.
Print
Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring grated carrots, warming cinnamon, and optional crunchy walnuts, this classic cake is topped with a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting that complements the spiced cake beautifully. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined, ensuring a uniform texture in the cake batter.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, eggs, grated carrots, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix thoroughly until the mixture is fully blended to distribute flavors and moisture evenly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Gently fold them together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and light.
- Bake the Cakes: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean, indicating they are fully baked.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk gradually, if needed, to achieve your preferred consistency for spreading.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides as desired for a beautifully finished carrot cake.
Notes
- Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Chopped walnuts can be omitted or substituted with pecans if preferred.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth in the spice mix.
- Use freshly grated carrots for best texture and flavor.
- Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
