Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic carrot cake with this delectable recipe that promises moist layers and creamy icing. Bursting with the wholesome goodness of carrots, raisins, and pineapple, this dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a special celebration or a simple gathering with loved ones, this carrot cake is sure to impress. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible confection.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups carrot (450 g), hand-grated
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (310 g), plus 1 tablespoon, divided
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup light brown sugar (200 g), packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup vegetable oil (240 mL)
- 1 cup raisin (150 g)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (225 g), canned
Icing:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (225 g), (2 sticks) room temperature
- 12 oz cream cheese (340 g), room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar (240 g)
- 2 cups walnuts (200 g), crushed
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350˚F (180˚C). Grease 3 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- Grate the carrots on the small holes of a box grater. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, sift together 2½ cups (310 G) of flour, the cinnamon, allspice, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk together.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs together with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until just combined.
- With the mixer running, gradually pour in the vegetable oil.
- With the mixer on medium-low speed, add ⅓ of the flour mixture at a time to the wet ingredients. Beat just to incorporate. Stop mixing when there is just a small amount of flour visible.
- In a small bowl, toss the raisins with the remaining tablespoon of flour.
- Add the raisin, grated carrots, and pineapple to the batter and fold to incorporate with a rubber spatula.
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a fork inserted in the center of a cake comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes on a wire rack until the pans are cool to the touch. Remove the cakes from the pans and let cool completely on the rack.
- Make the icing: In a large bowl, beat together the butter, cream cheese, and vanilla with an electric hand mixer on medium-low speed. Once combined, mix on medium-high speed for 30 seconds, until light and fluffy.
- Add the powdered sugar, ½ cup (60 G) at a time, beating on medium-low speed to incorporate each addition.
- Assembly: Check to see if the top of each cake is flat. If not, use a serrated knife level off the cakes.
- Place 1 cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spoon ¼ of the icing on top and spread in an even layer. Add another layer of cake and spread with another ¼ of the icing. Set the last cake layer on top with the bottom up to ensure a very flat surface. Spread the rest of the icing over the top and sides.
- Gently press the walnuts into the icing around the sides of the cake.
- Chill for 30-60 minutes to let the icing set, then slice and serve.
Conclusion:
Enjoy this sumptuous carrot cake with its delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a sweet indulgence, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. With its moist crumb and creamy icing, it’s a dessert that perfectly balances comfort and sophistication. So go ahead, savor each bite of this classic treat and relish in the joy it brings.