Classic Carrot Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
4 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined.
Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts (if using).
3. Divide and Bake:
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
4. Cool the Cakes:
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
6. Assemble the Cake:
Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the first cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting.
Frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, covering the top and sides evenly.
7. Decorate (Optional):
If desired, you can decorate the cake with additional chopped nuts, grated carrots, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve your Classic Carrot Cake as a delightful dessert.
This Classic Carrot Cake is a timeless favorite that's perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat any time. The combination of moist carrot cake layers and creamy cream cheese frosting creates a balance of flavors that's simply irresistible.