carrot cake and icing recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best carrot cake and icing recipe

I’ve always been a fan of carrot cake and icing recipe, and it’s become a staple in our household. My kids love helping me make it, and I love how easy it is to whip up a batch. The best part is that it’s a great way to get some extra veggies into their diet, since carrots are the star of the show.

Plus, the cream cheese frosting is a game-changer – it’s the perfect complement to the moist, sweet cake. I’ve even started making it for everyday snacks, since it’s just so delicious. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – carrots are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

It’s a win-win situation all around! As I’m sure you know, carrot cake originated in the United States, where it was popularized in the mid-20th century. The original recipe likely included grated carrots, sugar, eggs, flour, and spices.

Over time, various adaptations have emerged, but this basic formula remains at the heart of most modern carrot cake recipes. One thing that sets this recipe apart is its use of cream cheese frosting – a classic combination that adds richness and depth to the dish. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a tasty treat, this carrot cake and icing recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

And with its relatively simple ingredients and straightforward preparation process, it’s an excellent choice for home cooks of all skill levels.

Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

4.7 from 1146 votes

A moist and delicious carrot cake topped with a rich cream cheese icing. Perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Icing

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.
2Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
3In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
5Gradually add oil and vanilla, mixing well.
6Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
7Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts.
8Pour batter into prepared pan.
9Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10While the cake is baking, prepare the icing.
11In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
12Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
13Add vanilla and mix until light and fluffy.
14Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before spreading the icing evenly over the top.
15Once iced, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 400mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 35g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: For a healthier option, reduce the amount of sugar in the cake and icing. Add raisins or pineapple for extra flavor and texture.

This carrot cake and icing recipe has been a family favorite for years – we love serving it at gatherings or enjoying it as an everyday treat.

One tip I want to share is that storing leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature will help preserve its freshness for up to three days; after that point consider freezing it for longer storage.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Q: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?

I like to use all-purpose flour for this recipe because it provides a nice balance of strength and tenderness.

Q: Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with something else?

While you can experiment with different frostings, I highly recommend sticking with the traditional cream cheese version – it’s what makes this recipe so special.

Q: How do I ensure my carrot cake turns out moist?

The key is to not overmix the batter when you’re combining the wet and dry ingredients.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Sure thing – simply store the baked cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Q: Are there any specific tools or equipment I need to make this recipe?

A standard mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons will get you off to a good start; however you can also use your stand mixer if you have one.

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