Simple Carrot Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to whip up a dessert that’s comforting, moist, and wonderfully flavorful without a long list of complicated ingredients or steps, the Simple Carrot Cake is exactly what you need. This classic treat combines finely grated carrots with warming cinnamon and a tender crumb, delivering a delicious experience that feels both homey and special. It’s a perfect anytime cake that’s straightforward enough for weeknight baking yet impressive enough for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making a moist and flavorful Simple Carrot Cake. Each component plays a big role, from the texture brought by the grated carrots to the softness achieved with vegetable oil. The balance of spices adds warmth without overpowering the cake’s natural sweetness.

• 2 cups finely grated carrots: Fresh carrots provide moisture, sweetness, and a beautiful natural color.
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the batter giving the cake structure and tenderness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the earthiness of the carrots perfectly.
• 0.5 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender, unlike butter which can make cakes denser.
• 3 large eggs: Help bind ingredients together and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice, enhancing the carrot flavor with subtle depth.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Essential leavening agent to give the cake a light rise.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt: Balances and intensifies sweetness and spice, rounding out flavors.

How to Make Simple Carrot Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Carrots

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing your cake pan so the cake bakes evenly and releases easily. Finely grate the carrots next—this ensures they’ll cook quickly and blend beautifully into the batter, delivering moisture and texture every single bite.

Step 2: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly frothy. This step is key to incorporating air and helping the cake rise beautifully. Add the vegetable oil and whisk until smooth, creating a luscious batter base that will keep your cake moist.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps avoid pockets of baking powder or cinnamon in your cake.

Step 4: Gently Fold Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones, folding gently until just combined. Overmixing can make your Simple Carrot Cake tough, so be gentle for a light and tender crumb. Then fold in your grated carrots until they’re evenly spread throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to create a flat top. Bake for about 40 minutes until the cake turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This resting time helps the cake set perfectly.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Once your Simple Carrot Cake is completely cool, slice it up and don’t hesitate to enjoy it straight away or add your favorite topping for extra flair. It’s delicious any way you serve it!

How to Serve Simple Carrot Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders, or try a light layer of cream cheese frosting to complement the cake’s warm spices and moist crumb. Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch that balances perfectly with the soft texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your carrot cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing chai tea for a comforting afternoon treat. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also enhances the cake’s rich flavors for a dessert that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, cut the cake into petite squares and serve them on a tiered stand for a party setting. You can also layer thin slices with frosting in between for an elegant mini layer cake, perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Simple Carrot Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious at room temperature for up to 2 days or can be refrigerated for 4 to 5 days without losing its tender texture.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then again in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This protects it from freezer burn. Frozen carrot cake can last up to 3 months, letting you enjoy this tasty treat well into the future.

Reheating

For the best taste, thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before eating. If you want a warm treat, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive that freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that butter may produce a denser texture and a richer flavor. Vegetable oil helps keep your Simple Carrot Cake especially moist and tender, which is why it’s often preferred.

Do I need to peel the carrots before grating?

Peeling is optional but recommended to remove any bitterness or dirt. Thoroughly washing the carrots works if you prefer to keep the skins for extra nutrients and texture.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or golden raisins make delightful additions that add texture and bursts of flavor to the Simple Carrot Cake.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, but results might vary slightly in texture.

What frosting pairs best with this cake?

Cream cheese frosting is the classic and most popular pairing for carrot cake because its tangy creaminess complements the sweet and spiced flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a slice of Simple Carrot Cake fresh from the oven, with its perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and moistness. It’s an easy recipe that delivers incredible results every time, making it a go-to for both new bakers and seasoned pros looking for a reliable crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

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