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The Best Moist Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

Close-up of a tall, moist slice of carrot cake recipe with thick cream cheese frosting layers.
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This recipe delivers a reliably moist, flavorful, and spiced classic carrot cake topped with rich cream cheese frosting. It is the ultimate homemade dessert for any gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups grated carrots (about 4–5 medium carrots)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • For the Frosting:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
  4. Stir in the grated carrots and vanilla extract into the wet ingredients.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
  10. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.
  11. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread about one-third of the frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Notes

  • For an extra moist crumb texture, use fresh carrots grated finely.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the vegetable oil with applesauce.
  • You can add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (drained well) to the batter for added moisture and flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/moist-carrot-cake-recipe-secrets/