The Best Carrot Cake 🥕
Ingredients:
For the cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add wet ingredients: Stir in vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Incorporate carrots and nuts: Fold in grated carrots, pecans, and coconut (if using).
5. Bake: Divide batter evenly into prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
6. Prepare frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
7. Assemble cake: Spread frosting over one cake layer, top with the second layer, and frost the top and sides. Garnish with chopped pecans and shredded coconut if desired.
8. Serve and enjoy!