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Ultimate Carrot Cake

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will redefine your understanding of carrot cake. This recipe is a carefully crafted balance of tradition and innovation, where each ingredient is selected with intention and love. From the perfectly spiced cake base to the luxuriously smooth cream cheese frosting, every element has been thoughtfully considered to create a dessert that's not just delicious, but memorable. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply craving a slice of comfort, this carrot cake promises to be your new go-to recipe.
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Equipment

  • 9-inch round cake pans (2)
  • Parchment paper
  • Electric mixer
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Grater
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups freshly grated carrots
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts optional
  • For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 16 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
  • Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using) with a rubber spatula.
  • Divide batter evenly between prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
  • For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
  • Once cakes are completely cool, frost between layers and over the entire cake.

Notes

Use fresh carrots and grate them yourself for the best moisture and flavor
Room temperature ingredients ensure better cake texture
Don't overmix the batter to keep the cake tender
Let the cake cool completely before frosting
Optional add-ins: raisins, shredded coconut, or crushed pineapple