If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite, this Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is the answer. Packed with tender shredded carrots and lightly spiced with cinnamon, this cake offers a perfectly moist crumb that balances sweetness and texture beautifully. The dreamy cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tangy richness, making it an all-time favorite for gatherings or just a cozy day at home. Trust me, once you dive into this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe plays a crucial role, combining to create that classic taste and perfect consistency. The beauty lies in how straightforward these components are — from the naturally sweet grated carrots to the warm cinnamon notes — each element brings a special layer to the cake’s charm.

All-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s structure, ensuring a tender yet sturdy crumb.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while also helping with moisture retention.
Baking powder: A rising agent that helps the cake achieve fluffy lightness.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to further lift the batter and balance acidity.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice and depth, the signature flavor in carrot cake.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s richness.
Grated carrots: The star of the show, delivering natural sweetness, moisture, and beautiful color.
Chopped walnuts (optional): Adds crunchy texture and nutty flavor for those who love a bit of contrast.
Cream cheese: The base for the luscious frosting, creamy and slightly tangy.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a silky finish.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and complexity to the frosting’s flavor.
Milk (optional): Used to adjust frosting consistency for easy spreading.

How to Make Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper so your cakes come out cleanly and effortlessly. This simple prep step sets you up for an easy bake without sticky surprises.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these first ensures that your leavening agents and spices distribute evenly throughout the cake, giving every bite balanced flavor and perfect texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the vegetable oil, eggs, freshly grated carrots, and walnuts if you’re adding them. The oil keeps the cake moist, the eggs provide richness, and the carrots bring the iconic sweet, tender bite that makes carrot cake so loved.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Pour your wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing as this can lead to a denser cake. The batter will have a lovely texture full of promise.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing out the tops. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is perfectly baked but still moist and tender inside.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake layers cool, whip together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the frosting feels too thick, add a splash of milk to get that perfect spreading consistency. This frosting will be the luscious finishing touch that ties the whole cake together beautifully.

Step 7: Assemble and Frost

Once your cake layers have completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides of your cake as desired. This creates a stunning presentation and that irresistibly creamy texture.

How to Serve Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A simple carrot cake becomes even more inviting with just a few thoughtful garnishes. Consider sprinkling chopped walnuts or shredded coconut on top for extra crunch and visual appeal. Fresh carrot ribbons or a light dusting of cinnamon also complement the flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This carrot cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. If you want to get a little creative, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small dish of sliced fresh fruit to balance the richness and add freshness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic round cake and try this Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe as cupcakes, parfait layers in glass jars, or even mini cake bars for easy sharing. Adding a decorative piping of the frosting or edible flowers amps up the wow factor when you’re serving guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, your carrot cake stays fresh when kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps preserve the creamy frosting and keeps the cake moist, so it tastes just as delicious later on.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers before frosting, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving. For a quicker option, freeze fully assembled and frosted cake slices, making sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Since carrot cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, take a slice out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying. The frosting will soften perfectly without melting away.

FAQs

Can I omit the walnuts in this Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! The walnuts are optional and can be left out if you prefer a nut-free cake or have allergies. The cake will still be moist and flavorful thanks to the carrots and spices.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

Feel free to use light olive oil, melted coconut oil, or even applesauce as a substitute in equal amounts to keep the cake moist while adding subtle flavor variations.

How long should I beat the cream cheese frosting?

Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla for about 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. This helps eliminate lumps and ensures a creamy spread.

Can I add pineapple or raisins to this carrot cake?

Yes, adding crushed pineapple or raisins is a common variation that can give the cake extra moisture and flavor. Just fold them in with the wet ingredients before combining with the dry.

Is this carrot cake suitable for a birthday or special occasion?

Definitely! This Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is festive yet approachable, and with a little decorating, it can shine as the centerpiece dessert for any celebration.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a gem that brings delight to every occasion. It’s easy to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try baking this, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to cakes for comfort and festivities alike. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready for some serious baking joy!