Authentic American Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Step-by-Step Guide

Carrot cake is one of the most beloved cakes worldwide, known for its soft, moist texture and sweet, spiced flavor. But the American version, with its generous layer of cream cheese frosting, is an entirely different and irresistible experience. This cake combines the natural sweetness of carrots, the gentle warmth of spices like cinnamon, and the nutty flavor of walnuts, reaching a perfect balance when paired with cream cheese frosting. If you’re looking for a homemade carrot cake recipe that’s both beautiful and delicious, this guide is for you. Follow along to uncover the secrets of making an unforgettable carrot cake.

Ingredients for Carrot Cake

For convenience, the ingredients are divided into the cake and the cream cheese frosting.

Cake Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups sugar (preferably brown)

• 4 large eggs

• 1 ¼ cups vegetable oil

• 3 cups finely grated carrots, packed

• 1 cup chopped walnuts

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• ½ tsp salt

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

• 220 g cream cheese (such as Mascarpone or Philadelphia), at room temperature

• 110 g butter, softened to room temperature

• 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Steps to Make American Carrot Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease two 20–23 cm (8–9 inch) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Lightly grease and flour the parchment as well.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sift together to aerate the mixture, which helps create a lighter, softer cake.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using an electric mixer until creamy and slightly thickened. Slowly add the oil while continuing to mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, folding gently with a spatula or on low mixer speed just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense. Finally, fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts gently to complete the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30–40 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes cool, make the frosting. Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract at the end to form a creamy, spreadable frosting.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool (this is crucial), place one layer on a serving plate and spread half of the frosting on top. Place the second layer over it and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Decorate with extra chopped walnuts or grated carrots if desired.

Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake

• Use Fresh Carrots: Always use freshly grated carrots. Pre-packaged carrots are often dry and don’t provide enough moisture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, all ingredients—especially eggs, butter, and cream cheese—should be at room temperature.

• Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool fully before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and ruin the cake’s appearance.

• Flavor Variations: For extra variety, you can fold in ½ cup raisins or drained, chopped canned pineapple.

Final Notes

Now you have a classic American carrot cake recipe that can be the star of any gathering or a delightful afternoon treat. Its moist texture, warm spiced flavor, and balanced sweetness of cream cheese frosting create an experience you won’t forget. Store the cake in the refrigerator and enjoy each slice with a cup of tea or coffee.