This Carrot Cake is incredibly moist, flavorful, and filled with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, it's a delightful treat for any occasion!

Ingredients (Serves 8-10)

For the Cake:

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 100g (½ cup) brown sugar
• 240ml (1 cup) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 300g (3 cups) grated carrots
• 100g (1 cup) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 80g (½ cup) raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 360g (3 cups) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for tang)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake tins.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat sugars and oil until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and raisins (if using).

Step 2: Bake the Cake

7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let cakes cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

10. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
11. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.
12. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice for a slight tang.

Step 4: Assemble & Decorate

13. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
14. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
15. Garnish with chopped nuts or grated carrots for decoration.

Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake

✅ Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture—pre-shredded carrots are too dry.
✅ Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the cake light and moist.
✅ Chill the frosting before spreading for a smoother finish.
✅ For a healthier twist, swap half the oil for applesauce.

📌 Want cupcakes? This batter works great for carrot cupcakes—just bake for 18-20 minutes!

Enjoy this spiced and moist Carrot Cake! 🥕🍰