The Best Homemade Carrot Cake for Easter: A Moist & Flavorful Recipe

Easter is the perfect time to indulge in a delicious homemade carrot cake! Whether you're hosting a festive Easter brunch or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat with your loved ones, this easy carrot cake recipe will be a showstopper. This moist and flavorful cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting.

Making a carrot cake from scratch is easier than you think, and with the right ingredients and tools, you can create a bakery-quality dessert right at home. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to baking the perfect Easter carrot cake, along with helpful tips and recommended kitchen tools to make your baking experience even better.

Ingredients (Serves 12-14)

For the Carrot Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour 
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar 
  • 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 3 cups (300g) finely grated carrots 
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

  3. In another large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

  5. Fold in the grated carrots, applesauce, and nuts (if using).

  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.

  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.

  2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.

  3. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or carrots candy for decoration.

Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake

  • Use freshly grated carrots: Pre-shredded carrots are too dry. Grate fresh carrots for a moist cake.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
  • Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and frosting.
  • Refrigerate before serving: Chilling the cake for an hour enhances the flavors and texture.
  • Best tools for baking: A stand mixer (Check on Amazon), cooling racks (Buy Here), and a cake turntable (Recommended Cake Turntables) make the process easier.

This homemade Easter carrot cake is the ultimate holiday dessert that combines rich flavors with a moist, tender crumb. Topped with creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to be a hit at your Easter celebration! Whether you're baking for family or hosting a festive gathering, this classic carrot cake will bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

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