Description
This Heavenly Carrot Apple Cake is moist, flavorful, and packed with freshly grated carrots, juicy apples, and warm spices. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1 cup grated apple (1 medium apple, peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Prepare for baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
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Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
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Prepare the wet ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine the batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the grated carrots, grated apple, nuts, and raisins (if using).
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Bake the cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Frost the cake:
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top (and sides, if layered).
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Serve and enjoy:
- Slice and serve this heavenly treat!
Notes
- For added flavor, use Granny Smith apples for their tartness.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.