Spiced Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Introduction

Carrot cake is a classic favorite that combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with rich spices and creamy frosting. This spiced carrot cake recipe takes it up a notch with a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this cake promises to be a delightful treat for all.

Ingredients for the Cake

  • All-purpose flour: 2 cups – Sifted to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
  • Ground cinnamon: 2 tsp – Adds a warm, spicy flavor that is essential for any carrot cake.
  • Ground ginger: 1 tsp – Provides a sharp, slightly sweet flavor.
  • Ground nutmeg: 1/2 tsp – Offers a nutty and slightly sweet taste.
  • Ground cloves: 1/4 tsp – Introduces a strong, pungent flavor.
  • Baking soda: 1 tsp – Helps the cake rise.
  • Baking powder: 1 tsp – Acts as a leavening agent.
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp – Balances the sweetness.
  • Sugar: 1 1/4 cups – Adds sweetness and texture.
  • Vegetable oil: 1 cup – Gives moisture to the cake, making it soft and lush.
  • Eggs: 4 large – Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
  • Grated carrots: 2 cups – The star ingredient, providing moisture and sweetness.
  • Chopped walnuts: 1/2 cup (optional) – Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Crushed pineapple: 1/2 cup, drained – Enhances the cake’s moisture and adds a slight tang.
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – Enhances all the flavors in the cake.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened – The base of the frosting, rich and creamy.
  • Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, softened – Adds richness and creaminess.
  • Powdered sugar: 2 cups – Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold together.
  • Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – Complements the cream cheese beautifully.

Directions and Preparation Method

  1. Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. Mixing Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar and vegetable oil. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Combining Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  5. Adding Flavor and Texture: Fold in the grated carrots, optional walnuts, pineapple, and vanilla extract into the batter.
  6. Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to ensure it doesn’t break when frosted.
  8. Making Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
  9. Frosting the Cake: Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

Conclusion

This spiced carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is not just a cake, but a celebration of flavors. Each bite offers a moist crumb from the carrots and pineapple, a crunch from the walnuts, and a sweet, creamy finish from the frosting. Whether for a special occasion or a simple family dessert, this carrot cake is sure to impress. Remember, the key to the perfect carrot cake is in the preparation—take your time with each step, and you’ll be rewarded with a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Enjoy baking and more importantly, enjoy every slice!

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