Carrot Cake Cheesecake Cake

This Carrot Cake Cheesecake Cake is the ultimate dessert mashup—combining a moist, spiced carrot cake with a creamy cheesecake layer, all frosted in luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s impressive, decadent, and perfect for Easter, birthdays, or any special occasion when you want to wow a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you can’t decide between carrot cake and cheesecake, this cake gives you the best of both worlds in every bite. The tender carrot cake layers are packed with warm spices and shredded carrots, while the smooth, tangy cheesecake adds a delightful surprise in the middle. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that tastes just as amazing as it looks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Vegetable oil
• Brown sugar
• Large eggs
• Shredded carrots
• Crushed pineapple (drained, optional)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Cream cheese frosting (cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line and grease a springform pan for the cheesecake and two 8-inch round cake pans for the carrot cake.
2. Make the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set. Cool completely and freeze for easier assembly.
3. Make the carrot cake: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. In another bowl, combine oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir wet ingredients into dry, then fold in shredded carrots, pineapple, and nuts if using.
4. Divide batter between the two cake pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely.
5. Assemble the cake: Place one carrot cake layer on a cake stand. Top with the cheesecake layer, then add the second carrot cake layer. Frost the entire cake with cream cheese frosting.
6. Garnish with chopped pecans or carrot decorations if desired. Chill before slicing for clean layers.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12-14 people. Total time is about 2 hours plus cooling and chilling time.

Variations

• Add raisins or shredded coconut to the carrot cake batter for extra texture.
• Use a flavored cream cheese frosting, like maple or orange.
• Make it nut-free by skipping the pecans or walnuts.
• Top with caramel drizzle for an indulgent finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best texture, bring slices to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze individual slices—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Do I have to freeze the cheesecake layer?

Freezing makes it easier to stack and frost, but chilling thoroughly works too if you’re careful.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cheesecake and cake layers a day in advance, then assemble and frost the next day.

Can I use store-bought carrot cake mix?

You can, but homemade carrot cake tastes much better and holds up well with the cheesecake layer.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill the cake before slicing and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

It’s better to grate fresh carrots for the best texture and moisture.

Is crushed pineapple necessary?

No, but it adds extra moisture and flavor. You can skip it if you prefer.

How do I keep the layers from sliding?

Make sure the cheesecake layer is cold and the frosting is firm. Chilling the assembled cake helps it set.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

What size pans do I need?

An 8-inch springform pan for the cheesecake and two 8-inch round cake pans for the carrot cake layers.

What’s the best way to decorate this cake?

Keep it simple with chopped nuts around the sides or top, or add little piped carrots for a cute touch.

Conclusion

This Carrot Cake Cheesecake Cake is a dreamy dessert that brings together the best parts of two beloved classics. Moist carrot cake, creamy cheesecake, and tangy cream cheese frosting make every bite unforgettable. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a requested favorite for every special celebration!

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