Simple Carrot Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Moist and Easy Treat

Carrot cake is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This Simple Carrot Cake Recipe offers a moist and flavorful cake without any complicated steps. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even beginner bakers can master, resulting in a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Why This Simple Carrot Cake Recipe Works

This recipe focuses on simplicity and flavor. We use readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it easy for anyone to bake a delicious carrot cake. The combination of spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a warm and inviting aroma, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the moist cake. I remember the first time I baked this carrot cake for my family; the smiles on their faces were enough to know I had a winner. It’s become a treasured family recipe ever since.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Simple Carrot Cake

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple carrot cake recipe:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Baking the Perfect Simple Carrot Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Frosting and Serving Your Simple Carrot Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the cream cheese frosting. You can get creative with decorating, adding chopped nuts, shredded carrots, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. This simple carrot cake is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

“A perfectly moist carrot cake is a balance of spices and sweetness,” says renowned pastry chef, Amelia Dubois. “This recipe achieves that balance effortlessly.” This simple carrot cake recipe is indeed a testament to that balance, offering a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender cake and creamy frosting is simply irresistible. It’s reminiscent of classic carrot cakes but with a touch of modern simplicity.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

This simple carrot cake recipe is perfect for:

• Beginner bakers: The steps are easy to follow and the ingredients are simple.
• Busy weeknights: This recipe comes together quickly and easily.
• Special occasions: It’s delicious enough to serve at any celebration.

This simple carrot cake recipe truly lives up to its name. It’s a simple, yet delicious dessert that’s sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that will become a new favorite. If you’re looking to expand your keto baking repertoire, you might find our Top 6 keto cake recipes with toffee bits 2025 helpful. You could also try the Top 8 keto cake recipes high protein 2025 for a healthier option.

A slice of simple carrot cake

For those just starting their keto journey, the Top 7 keto cake recipes for beginners 2025 offers a great starting point. The Keto cake recipe step by step provides a detailed guide with helpful visuals. For a richer, creamier keto cake, explore our Top 10 keto cake recipes with coconut cream 2025.

FAQ

1. Can I use oil other than vegetable oil? Yes, you can substitute canola oil or even melted coconut oil.
2. Can I omit the nuts? Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be left out.
3. How do I store leftover carrot cake? Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Frost the cake after thawing.
5. Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake? Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for cupcakes. Reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
6. Can I use a different type of frosting? While cream cheese frosting is traditional, you can use your favorite frosting.
7. How can I tell if my cake is done? Insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

This simple carrot cake recipe is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Give this simple carrot cake recipe a try and enjoy!