How to Make the Best Moist Carrot Cake: A Step-by-Step Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

Howdy foodies! Today, I'm excited to share with you my delicious recipe for carrot cake. This classic dessert is a favorite for many, and it's perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings.

Here are the ingredients you'll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the sugar and oil mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts, if using.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the cakes are cool, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one cake, then place the other cake on top. Spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake.

For the cream cheese frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is thick and spreadable.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Baking tip: To make sure your carrot cake comes out perfectly every time, be sure to grate your carrots finely, and measure your ingredients carefully. Also, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting, as this will help ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.

I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious carrot cake as much as I do!