Carrot Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the ultimate classic dessert with this moist and flavorful Carrot Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Packed with fresh grated carrots, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of unsweetened applesauce for extra tenderness, this cake is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s whipped to perfection, every bite is a harmonious balance of sweetness and tang. Optional chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while three fluffy layers make for an impressive presentation. Whether it’s for a celebration or a simple dessert craving, this carrot cake is a timeless treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 42/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
• 0.5 cups Brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking soda
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Vegetable oil
• 0.5 cups Unsweetened applesauce
• 4 Large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups Fresh carrots, grated
• 1 cup Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 16 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups Powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4

Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5

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

Step 6

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

Step 7

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

Step 8

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9

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

Step 10

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated.

Step 11

Mix in the vanilla extract and salt. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 12

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.

Step 13

Stack the second layer on top and frost it, then repeat with the third layer.

Step 14

Frost the sides of the cake evenly and decorate with additional nuts or grated carrot, if desired.

Step 15

Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3334.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	11080.5

Total Fat 665.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 261.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 134.4g
Cholesterol 1762.9mg	0%
Sodium 8050.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1249.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 41.6g	0%
Total Sugars 935.5g
Protein 113.5g	0%

Vitamin D 160IU	0%
Calcium 1131.7mg	0%
Iron 27.8mg	0%
Potassium 4280.1mg	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: 52.3%

Protein: 4.0%

Carbs: 43.7%