Carrot Cake Alton Brown

Indulge in the ultimate homemade dessert with Alton Brown's decadent carrot cake, a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and ginger, and balanced with the natural sweetness of freshly grated carrots and unsweetened applesauce, this moist and tender cake is an irresistible treat for any occasion. The addition of chopped pecans offers a delightful crunch, while the luscious cream cheese frosting adds creamy, tangy richness to every bite. Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes of prep time, this classic layered carrot cake is a show-stopping centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or everyday celebrations. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe ensures foolproof deliciousness that will impress family and friends alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 44/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 1.5 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground ginger
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup Vegetable oil
• 0.5 cup Unsweetened applesauce
• 4 pieces Large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 3 cups Grated carrots
• 1 cup Chopped pecans (optional)
• 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups Powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and applesauce. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until smooth.

Step 4

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.

Step 6

Fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans (if using).

Step 7

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10

To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until creamy and smooth.

Step 11

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 12

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting between the two cake layers. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.

Step 13

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Slice and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2432.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8763.7

Total Fat 487.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 152.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 134.4g
Cholesterol 1253.4mg	0%
Sodium 4691.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1072.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 35.3g	0%
Total Sugars 798.5g
Protein 87.1g	0%

Vitamin D 160IU	0%
Calcium 816.9mg	0%
Iron 27.2mg	0%
Potassium 2501.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.6%

Protein: 3.9%

Carbs: 47.5%