Description
A soft, moist, and richly spiced British carrot cake topped with a creamy, indulgent cream cheese frosting. This recipe combines the traditional flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh carrots to create a timeless dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Substitute: Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option - Baking powder – 1 ½ tsp
- Baking soda – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp
Optional: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth - Granulated sugar – 1 cup
- Brown sugar – ½ cup
Adds richness; can substitute with coconut sugar - Vegetable oil – 1 cup
Substitute: Melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor - Large eggs – 3
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- Grated carrots – 2 cups (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- Chopped walnuts – ½ cup
Optional: Pecans or omit for a nut-free version
Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup, softened
- Powdered sugar – 3 cups
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside. - Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugars until light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing well. Fold in the grated carrots. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Frosting
In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Chill the frosting for 30 minutes before using for best results. - Frost and Decorate
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Decorate with chopped walnuts or grated carrot if desired.
Notes
- For extra moistness: Squeeze excess moisture from the grated carrots.
- Avoid overbaking: Check early for doneness, as baking times can vary.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg