Carrot Layer Cake Recipe- American Special
This Carrot Layer Cake is a beloved dessert that blends warm spiced flavour with the natural sweetness of grated carrots. It’s a moist cake that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, whether you’re including pineapple optional for extra juiciness or sticking to the classic version. Fold in nuts for a delightful nut crunch, then frost as much or as little as you like—plain or cream cheese frosting—this cake will brighten any occasion and leave guests coming back for more!
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time45 min
- Perform Time30 min
- Total Time1 hr 35 min
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants
How to make Carrot Layer Cake :
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple if using.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If desired, fold in the nuts and raisins.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting (Optional): Frost with cream cheese frosting or your favorite frosting if desired.
Recipe Notes :
Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container. At room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week; warm gently before serving if chilled.
Frosting Choices: Cream cheese frosting is traditional, but buttercream or mascarpone icing also work beautifully. For lighter option, simply dust with powdered sugar.
Ingredient Swaps: Replace walnuts or pecans with almonds or omit nuts for nut-free. Skip pineapple if you prefer traditional flavour, or use applesauce for moisture.
Bake Time: Bake for about 25-30 minutes in the pans; check doneness with a toothpick—centres should be set but still tender.
Serving Suggestions: This cake is great for gatherings, potlucks or as a special dessert. Garnish with carrot curls or chopped nuts for presentation; serve with a cup of tea or milk.
