As Easter approaches, it's the perfect time to indulge in the classic charm of carrot cake. With its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting, carrot cake is a beloved dessert that never fails to delight. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this homemade carrot cake recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
Cream cheese frosting (below)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 13x9 baking pan (or 3 9inch round cake pans).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the grated carrots, coconut, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Cool Completely before icing.
Icing Ingredients:
3 oz cream cheese
2 Tablespoons margarine
2 Tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
2 -2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
dash of salt
Icing Directions:
Blend cream cheese and margarine in a small bowl until smooth.
Add milk, vanilla, and salt and stir well.
Begin with 2 cups of powdered sugar and mix in completely. Add what is needed of the 1/4 cup to reach desired consistency. Ice cooled cake completely.
Garnish with additional pecans or toasted coconut.
With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, homemade carrot cake is the ultimate Easter dessert. Whether you're baking it for a special gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this classic recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of homemade carrot cake. Happy baking!