If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting, this Carrot Walnut Cake with its creamy cream cheese frosting is sure to become a favorite.
The combination of warm spices, moist cake, and a smooth, tangy frosting creates a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just treating yourself to a homemade sweet, this cake will not disappoint.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Success
Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients ready to go. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious carrot walnut cake from scratch:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (roughly 3–4 medium carrots)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for desired frosting consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Best Carrot Walnut Cake
Ready to create this masterpiece? Follow these easy steps for a cake that’s sure to impress:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set the dry ingredients aside for later use.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. You don’t want to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake.
Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts. These not only add great flavor but also contribute to the moisture of the cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Spread it out gently to ensure an even bake.
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean, the cakes are ready.
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is cooling, you can make the frosting.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. This step is key to getting that perfectly smooth frosting texture.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps prevent any lumps and ensures a silky finish.
Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency. The frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape but smooth enough to spread easily.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of the cooled cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top, smoothing it out evenly.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. You can make it as simple or as decorated as you like.
For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or some grated carrots on top for decoration.
Tips for Making the Best Carrot Walnut Cake
To make sure your cake turns out as amazing as possible, here are some useful tips:
1. Use Fresh Carrots
Freshly grated carrots yield the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded carrots often contain preservatives and are drier, which can affect the overall moistness of the cake. Fresh carrots provide the perfect moisture and flavor.
2. Customize the Mix-Ins
This cake is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with additional ingredients. Try adding raisins, shredded coconut, or crushed pineapple for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure not to add too much moisture, or the cake could become too wet.
3. Chill the Frosting If Necessary
If your cream cheese frosting becomes too soft while you’re working with it, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. Chilling the frosting helps it firm up, making it easier to spread and decorate.
4. Ensure Proper Cake Cooling
Let your cakes cool completely before frosting. If the cakes are even slightly warm, the frosting could melt and slide off, leaving a mess. Patience here pays off!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
If you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown, here’s an approximate idea of what to expect per slice:
- Calories: ~420
- Carbohydrates: ~54g
- Protein: ~5g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~2g
While this cake may be indulgent, it’s also a good source of fiber from the carrots and walnuts, making it a satisfying treat when enjoyed in moderation.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This Carrot Walnut Cake is one of those timeless desserts that’s perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, celebrating a holiday, or simply baking for a weekend treat, this cake is sure to please.
The moist, spiced cake pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, while the crunchy walnuts add a lovely texture contrast. Each bite is a balance of sweetness, spice, and smoothness—making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing. Who says desserts can’t be delicious and nutritious?
Ready to Bake?
Now that you have all the steps, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this Carrot Walnut Cake is a fun and rewarding treat to make. Don’t forget to share your results or any tweaks you made to the recipe.
Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious homemade cake!
