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Classic Carrot Cake Recipe

4.4 from 118 reviews

This Classic Carrot Cake recipe results in a moist, flavorful dessert featuring freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this timeless cake combines simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Wet Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 45 medium carrots)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or prepare two 9-inch round cake pans for layering.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. These spices bring warmth and depth to the cake.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Slowly add the vegetable oil while mixing to create a smooth batter.
  4. Add Carrots: Fold the grated carrots into the wet ingredients gently, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
  5. Create the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding carefully until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s). Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is moist.
  7. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy.
  8. Serve: Once cooled, frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting or enjoy plain. Slice and serve for a classic, delightful dessert experience.

Notes

  • Grate carrots finely for the best texture.
  • Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.
  • You can substitute half the oil with applesauce for a lighter version.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Store leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: carrot cake, classic dessert, moist cake, cinnamon, nutmeg, homemade carrot cake