Carrot cake is a moist and flavorful dessert often enjoyed for its delicious blend of spices, carrots, and a creamy cream cheese frosting. It's a perfect treat for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. This guide will walk you through the steps to make a classic and scrumptious carrot cake from scratch.
Gather all necessary ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.
For the Cake:
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready.
2. Prepare the Baking Pans
Grease and line the bottoms of the two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This will help the cakes release easily after baking.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
4. Beat Sugars and Oil
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in Carrots and Add-Ins
Fold in the grated carrots, and if using, the chopped nuts and raisins, until evenly distributed.
8. Pour into Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
9. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the Cakes
Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
1. Beat Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Once all the powdered sugar is added, increase the speed to medium-high and beat until fluffy.
3. Add Vanilla and Adjust Consistency
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream to reach the desired consistency.
1. Level the Cakes
If necessary, level the tops of the cakes using a serrated knife to ensure even layers.
2. Frost the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
3. Final Frosting
Once the crumb coat is set, apply a thicker layer of frosting to the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Carrot cake is a delightful and flavorful dessert that is both easy to make and enjoyable for any occasion. With this detailed guide, even beginners can create a delicious and beautiful carrot cake that will impress family and friends. Enjoy your baking and the scrumptious results!