Description
A soft, spiced carrot cake topped with creamy frosting. This easy one-bowl recipe is rich in flavor and perfect for spring celebrations or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8- or 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Add the grated carrots and toss to coat them in the dry mixture.
- Make a well in the center. Add sugars, melted butter, applesauce, vanilla, vinegar, and water. Stir until just combined and no dry flour remains.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add vanilla and powdered sugar, beating until creamy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Chill for 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For extra texture, stir in ½ cup of crushed pineapple or ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts into the batter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American