Ultimate Carrot Cake Scratch Recipes

Carrot cake remains a favorite among cake lovers for its moist crumb, complex spice profile, and the irresistible pairing with tangy cream cheese frosting.

This recipe delivers a deeply flavorful, tender carrot cake that never disappoints, whether for birthdays, holiday tables, or a weekend treat.

Unlike many cakes, carrot cake excels at combining subtle sweetness with earthy undertones and a satisfying texture—making it a standout dessert anyone can master.

Here, you’ll find an expert, comprehensive guide, with extra tips and details to ensure you get bakery-level results every time you bake.

Ingredients Checklist

The secret to a memorable carrot cake is fresh, quality ingredients and a balanced blend of flavors. Gather everything you need before starting to guarantee smooth, efficient prep.

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: Sifted for a lighter crumb.

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures proper rise and a fluffier cake.

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds extra warmth.

• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: For a subtle spicy note.

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar

• ¾ cup (160g) light brown sugar, packed

• 1 cup (240ml) neutral oil: Vegetable or canola work well.

• ½ cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce: Extra moisture and tenderness.

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2½ cups (260g) freshly grated carrots: About 3-4 medium carrots, tightly packed.

• 1 cup (150g) crushed pineapple, well-drained

• ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup (110g) chopped walnuts or pecans: Toasted for richer flavor; optional but recommended.

• Zest of 1 orange: Brightens the flavors and balances sweetness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream: For fluffier, spreadable frosting.

• Pinch of salt

Equipment Needed:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch pan

• Parchment paper

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)

• Hand or stand mixer

• Box grater or food processor

• Spatula and offset spatula

• Cooling racks

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

A little preparation and attention to detail go a long way in carrot cake baking. Follow these steps closely for a flawless cake.

1. Prep the Pans and Ingredients

• Grease cake pans thoroughly with butter, line bottoms with parchment, and dust with flour. Tap out any excess.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange rack in the center.

• Toast nuts in a dry pan over low heat for 5 minutes, cool, and chop.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until evenly combined.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until pale and thickened, about 2 minutes.

• Stream in oil and applesauce while mixing, then beat in vanilla extract and orange zest.

4. Bring the Batter Together

• Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two batches, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing—some small streaks of flour are fine.

• Fold in the grated carrots, pineapple, coconut, and toasted nuts using a spatula, scraping the sides and bottom to ensure everything is incorporated.

5. Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans (or pour into a 9×13 pan). Smooth the tops.

• Bake for 28-32 minutes (round pans) or 35-38 minutes (9×13), rotating pans halfway. Cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

• Cool cakes in pans on racks for 15 minutes. Run a thin knife around the edges, then invert onto racks, peel off parchment, and cool completely.

6. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together on high until creamy and smooth (about 2 minutes).

• Add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low to combine. Increase to high speed, add vanilla, heavy cream, and salt, and whip until fluffy and spreadable.

• If frosting is too soft, chill for 15-20 minutes before using.

7. Assemble and Decorate

• Level cake layers with a serrated knife if needed.

• Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.

• Add the second layer and spread remaining frosting on the top and sides.

• Garnish with additional toasted nuts, grated carrot curls, or orange zest if desired.

Tips for Perfect Results

A well-made carrot cake is all about moisture, balance, and careful handling. Use these tips for professional-quality cake every time.

• Grate carrots fresh: Pre-shredded carrots are dry and tough. Freshly grated carrots add essential moisture and flavor.

• Don’t overmix: Mix batter just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing creates dense cake.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs, cream cheese, and butter mix more smoothly when not cold, leading to better cake structure and frosting texture.

• Drain pineapple thoroughly: Excess liquid can make the cake gummy. Press pineapple with a paper towel if needed.

• Toast your nuts: This intensifies their flavor and keeps them from getting soggy in the cake.

• Cool cake completely before frosting: Warm cake will melt the frosting and ruin the look.

• Add citrus zest: Orange zest brightens the flavor and cuts richness, but you can skip it for a more traditional taste.

• For clean slices: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot cake is versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of accompaniments and presentations. Enhance your dessert experience with these ideas.

• Serve each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

• Top with candied carrot curls, a sprinkle of orange zest, or edible flowers for a festive presentation.

• For brunch or afternoon tea, pair with hot spiced chai, coffee, or black tea.

• Dress up individual servings with a drizzle of caramel or honey, or a scattering of toasted coconut.

• For special occasions, create a layer cake with thin layers and more frosting for dramatic height and elegance.

• Make cupcakes with the same batter and top with swirls of cream cheese frosting and a pecan half.

Final Thoughts

Carrot cake from scratch is more than just a nostalgic dessert—it’s a crowd-pleaser that marries wholesome ingredients with classic baking techniques.

This comprehensive recipe ensures your cake is never dry or bland, but rather, packed with nuanced flavors, tender texture, and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Whether you’re baking for a family celebration or just to satisfy a craving, this carrot cake is sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with add-ins or frostings—carrot cake is wonderfully adaptable. Happy baking!