Cinnamon Spiced Carrot Cake Recipe

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Carrot cake isn’t just for Easter – it’s a great way to bring those cozy fall vibes into your kitchen. With its mix of fresh carrots, warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet sugar, this cake has all the flavors we love about autumn. The spiced, moist cake topped with creamy, tangy Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for cool fall nights or when you just want something sweet with your coffee. Whether you're sharing it with friends or enjoying a slice by yourself, carrot cake is a tasty treat that works year-round, especially during the fall season!

Recipe Ingredients for a Perfectly Moist Carrot Cake

• Spices: Cinnamon, Ginger, and Nutmeg are staples in recipes that aim for a cozy, comforting flavor profile, making them perfect for fall baking and spiced treats like carrot cake.

• Oil: When it comes to baking, the best oils are neutral-flavored oils with a high smoke point, which help keep baked goods moist without adding a strong flavor. I typically use Canola Oil, but a few others that fit the description are vegetable, coconut, light olive, or avocado oils.

• Applesauce: Applesauce adds moisture to baked goods, keeping them soft and tender. It also has natural sugars, which can reduce the need for additional sweeteners in this recipe. It provides a mild sweetness without overwhelming the dish.

• Carrots: The most important part about the carrots in a carrot cake is that they provide moisture, sweetness, and texture to the cake. Here’s why they’re key:

  1. Moisture – Carrots release water as they bake, which keeps the cake soft, moist, and tender without making it dense. I find pre-shredded carrots from the store are already too dry so it is best to grate your own

  2. Natural Sweetness – Carrots add a subtle, natural sweetness that complements the cake’s other ingredients without overpowering them.

  3. Texture – Freshly grated carrots contribute a slight texture to the cake, giving it a satisfying bite and visual appeal without being overly crunchy.

  For the best results, make sure to finely grate the carrots so they blend evenly into the batter, ensuring a smooth, moist cake.

Assemble the Cake Layers

1. Level the tops of each cake layer. You may use either a large knife or a cake leveler for this step, I personally love this cake leveler. It’s a great option for beginners too!

2. Place one of the layers on a cake stand and scoop a little over 1/2 cup of the frosting on top, then smooth it out evenly.

3. Place the other cake layer on top and use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake. An angled spatula or even the back of a spoon works great for this step! If you want to add a little something extra, feel free to toast some chopped pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them around the top of the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does carrot cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, carrot cake should be refrigerated, especially if it has Cream Cheese Frosting. The moisture in the cake and the dairy in the frosting can spoil if left at room temperature for too long. When refrigerated, carrot cake can last up to 4-5 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to soften the frosting and bring back some of the cake's tenderness.

Can you freeze carrot cake?

Yes, you can freeze carrot cake, and it freezes quite well! Whether the cake is frosted or unfrosted, freezing can help extend its shelf life without losing its moisture or flavor. Here’s how to do it:

1. Freezing Unfrosted Carrot Cake – After the cake has fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

2. Freezing Frosted Carrot Cake – If your cake has cream cheese frosting, first freeze it uncovered for about an hour to harden the frosting. Once the frosting is solid, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container.

How do you grate carrots for carrot cake?

The easiest method is to use a Box Grater and grate the carrots just like a block of cheese. If you have a stand mixer, this Grater Attachment will save you time, and your fingers!

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Nuts and raisins are fantastic textural components that you can add to your carrot cake. Nuts will also add an additional layer of earthy nuttiness. I suggest using about 3/4 to 1 cup. Raisins will add additional layer of sweetness, add up to 1/2 cup as they tend to also release moisture into the cake and we don't want it too soggy!