Name: Classic Carrot Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 Servings
Cuisine: American

Real Life of Lulu Verified

January 23, 2026

This classic carrot cake is a showstopper packed with warm spices, freshly grated carrots, and a hint of crunch from optional walnuts. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s perfectly tangy and sweet, this moist, flavorful cake is ideal for celebrations—or just because. Each bite is a cozy blend of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion!

From the Cook

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Classic Carrot Cake Recipe

Real Life of Lulu Verified

Ingredients

WarningMilk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Carrot Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, whisk the sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla extractuntil smooth and combined.

Gradually stir the grated carrots into the oil mixture.

Add the flour mixture to the oil mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

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

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting (see recipe below) over the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Optionally, garnish with additional chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or carrot decorations.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (if needed for spreading consistency) and beat until well combined.

Smart Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Carrot Grating Magic 🥕
Use the fine side of a box grater and pat grated carrots with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a moist but not soggy cake texture.
Spice Bloom Technique 🌶️
Toast ground spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding to the batter to intensify their aromatic qualities.
Cream Cheese Frosting Perfection 🧁
Ensure cream cheese and butter are at exactly room temperature and beat on low speed to prevent over-mixing, which can make the frosting runny.
Nut Preparation Pro 🥜
Toast walnuts in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and prevent sogginess in the cake.
Moisture Maintenance Trick 💧
Add a light simple syrup brush to the cake layers after cooling to lock in moisture and create an extra-tender crumb.