Easy Homemade Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Try this homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting recipe! Moist, spiced cake with a rich, creamy topping—perfect for any occasion. Easy spring dessert!

Carrot cake is a classic dessert loved by many. It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with rich cream cheese frosting. If you’ve never made one from scratch, now is the perfect time!

What Is Homemade Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Homemade carrot cake is a spiced cake made with freshly grated carrots. The carrots add moisture and sweetness, making the cake incredibly soft.

Topped with cream cheese frosting, this cake becomes irresistible. The combination of tangy frosting and spiced cake creates the perfect balance. This dessert is great for birthdays, holidays, or any time you crave a homemade treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups oil
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 3 cups raw grated carrots

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Handful of chopped walnuts (optional)
• Candy eggs (optional)

How to Make Homemade Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Next, add the oil, beaten eggs, and grated carrots. Stir everything by hand until well combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly.

Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool completely before adding frosting.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a bowl, add cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix with an electric hand mixer until smooth.

If using walnuts, stir them in with a spoon.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

For decoration, add candy eggs or extra chopped walnuts if desired.

Places to Take or Use This Recipe

This carrot cake is perfect for many occasions! Here are a few ideas:

• Birthday parties – A homemade carrot cake is always a hit.
• Holiday gatherings – Serve it for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
• Potlucks – It’s easy to make and transport.
• Tea time or brunch – Pairs well with coffee or tea.
• Bake sales – A crowd-pleasing choice that sells quickly.

Variations to Try

Want to change things up? Here are some fun variations:

• Add raisins or pineapple – For extra sweetness and moisture.
• Use whole wheat flour – For a healthier twist.
• Make cupcakes – Bake in a muffin tin for individual servings.
• Swap walnuts for pecans – Another delicious nutty option.
• Add shredded coconut – For more texture and flavor.
• Use maple syrup in the frosting – Adds a rich, deep flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make ahead – Bake the cake a day in advance and frost before serving.
• Store in the fridge – Keep the cake covered and refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Can I Freeze for later – Wrap unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Frosting storage – Store extra frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Common Questions About Homemade Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots work best because they add moisture. Pre-shredded ones are often too dry.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes! The nuts are optional, so you can leave them out.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Cream cheese frosting is traditional, but buttercream or whipped cream would also work.

What oil is best for carrot cake?

Vegetable or canola oil works well. You can also use melted coconut oil for a slight flavor boost.

Can I freeze Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, wrap unfrosted cake tightly with plastic wrapped for up to 3 months. You can also freeze frosted cake in an airtight container. When thawing take out the night before and thaw in the refrigerator. Note that the texture of the frosting may become grainy after frosting.

Conclusion

Homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is a delicious and classic dessert. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Give this recipe a try! Share it with friends and family, or bring it to your next event. Let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

More Easter Desserts:

• Bunny Sugar Cookies
• Carrot Cake Cookies
• Bunny Butt Cupcakes
• 4 Ingredient Fudge

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