Spiced Carrot Cake Cream (Printable)
Moist carrot cake with warm spices and smooth cream cheese frosting, ideal for gatherings or teatime.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cake
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
10 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
11 - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
12 - 4 large eggs
13 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
14 - 3 cups finely grated carrots
15 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
16 - 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
→ Cream Cheese Frosting
17 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
18 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
19 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
20 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
21 - Pinch of salt
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a large bowl.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
05 - Fold in grated carrots, nuts, and raisins if using, ensuring even distribution.
06 - Evenly divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
07 - Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until fluffy.
09 - Spread frosting between the cake layers, then cover the top and sides evenly.
# Cooking Tips:
01 -
- This cake carries a delicate warmth that feels like a secret hug in every bite
- The cream cheese frosting adds just the right tang that keeps everyone coming back for more
02 -
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and light
- Adding applesauce boosts moistness and reduces the oil needed, a game changer for flavor and texture
03 -
- Use freshly ground spices for the most vibrant flavor
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting