Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your dessert game forever! This isn't just another carrot cake recipe - this is the legendary "Crazy Good Carrot Cake" that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine a perfectly moist, richly spiced cake layered with the most decadent cream cheese icing you've ever tasted. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a showstopping dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds - and asking for your secret!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs to the mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops if necessary.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese icing on top of the first layer.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Use the remaining cream cheese icing to frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- For an extra touch, you can garnish the cake with additional grated carrots, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
- Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy your Crazy Good Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing!
Tips
- Always use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best texture and moisture.
- Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the smoothest icing.
- For extra flavor, consider adding optional mix-ins like chopped walnuts or raisins.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator, but let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- For a more decorative look, use a piping bag to create beautiful icing designs on top of the cake.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
