Whole Wheat Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of this Whole Wheat Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—a healthier twist on a classic dessert that's as delicious as it is nourishing. Made with nutrient-packed whole wheat flour, heartwarming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and naturally sweet grated carrots, this cake offers a moist, tender crumb without sacrificing flavor. A touch of applesauce enhances the moisture while cutting back on excess oil, making it a guilt-free treat. Topped with a luscious, velvety cream cheese frosting, this cake strikes the perfect balance between decadence and health-conscious baking. Ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or anytime you crave a homestyle dessert, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Whether served plain or garnished with chopped walnuts, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups Whole wheat flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 3 large Eggs
• 1 cup Brown sugar
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.75 cups Vegetable oil
• 0.5 cups Applesauce (unsweetened)
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 2 cups Grated carrots
• 0.5 cup Chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on medium speed until slightly frothy, about 1 minute.

Step 4

Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract to the eggs. Mix until well combined.

Step 5

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

Step 6

Fold in the grated carrots and, if using, chopped walnuts. Ensure the carrots are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 10

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

Step 11

Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated, then increase to medium-high speed and beat until fluffy.

Step 12

Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 13

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula.

Step 14

Slice, serve, and enjoy your Whole Wheat Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1759.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6041.9

Total Fat 341.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 108.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 100.8g
Cholesterol 933.1mg	0%
Sodium 3263.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 720.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 45.3g	0%
Total Sugars 510.8g
Protein 79.0g	0%

Vitamin D 151IU	0%
Calcium 706.1mg	0%
Iron 18.6mg	0%
Potassium 2511.2mg	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: 49.0%

Protein: 5.0%

Carbs: 45.9%