This moist, spiced Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is packed with fresh carrots, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Easter, birthdays, or any special occasion!
Table of Contents
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- ½ tsp ground ginger (optional)
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 ¼ cups (300ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups (300g) finely grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1 cup (100g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup (80g) crushed pineapple, drained (for extra moisture)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 12 oz (340g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Toasted walnuts or pecans
- Carrot ribbons (made with a peeler)
- Cinnamon sprinkle

How to Make Carrot Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep & Mix Dry Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans (or a 9×13″ sheet pan).
- In a bowl, whisk together:
- Flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, beat:
- Granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots, nuts, and pineapple (if using).
Step 3: Bake
- Divide batter evenly between pans.
- Bake for 30-35 mins (or until a toothpick comes out clean).
- Let cakes cool 10 mins in pans, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth (~3 mins).
- Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whip until fluffy (~5 mins).
Step 5: Assemble & Decorate
- Once cakes are completely cooled, frost between layers and over the top.
- Garnish with toasted nuts or carrot ribbons.

My Best Carrot Cake Recipe Tips
✔ Use freshly grated carrots (store-bought shreds are too dry).
✔ Toast nuts for deeper flavor (350°F for 8-10 mins).
✔ Chill cakes before frosting for easier handling.
✔ For extra moisture, add ½ cup raisins or coconut flakes.
What to Serve with Carrot Cake
- Vanilla ice cream
- Hot coffee or chai tea
- Whipped cream & caramel drizzle
Final Thoughts About Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This Carrot Cake is perfectly spiced, moist, and balanced—not overly sweet, with a tangy cream cheese finish. A crowd-pleaser every time!
Can I make cupcakes?
Yes! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 mins.
Can I omit nuts?
Yes, or replace with sunflower seeds for crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate (due to frosting) for up to 5 days.
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