The sweet scent of freshly baked Easter Carrot Cake wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine layers of fluffy cake bursting with grated carrots and warm spices, all slathered in a heavenly cream cheese frosting that might just cause you to forget your lunch plans altogether. This isn’t just any carrot cake; it’s a celebration on a plate!

I first discovered this recipe while trying to impress my family during an Easter brunch. Spoiler alert: it became the highlight of our gathering! The combination of flavors and textures makes it perfect for any springtime occasion—trust me when I say it’ll leave everyone wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easter Carrot Cake is a breeze to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
- Its sweet and spicy flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds
- The vibrant orange hue makes it a showstopper on any table
- Enjoy it as a festive dessert or a delightful afternoon treat
I remember the first time I baked this carrot cake; my niece declared it “the best thing ever,” which made my heart soar like a soufflé!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use good quality flour for the softest texture; sift it for extra fluffiness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is essential here; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for that perfect rise.
- Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that brings out the best flavors in the cake.
- Shredded Carrots: Freshly grated carrots add moisture and sweetness; avoid pre-packaged options.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better mixing.
- Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist; feel free to substitute with applesauce for a lighter version.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing into your frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: This will sweeten your cream cheese frosting perfectly and give it that smooth texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot when you put in your cake batter.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly blended—it’s like making magic dust!
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
Fold in Shredded Carrots: Gently fold in shredded carrots until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter—your arms might get a little workout here!
Bake Your Cake Layers: Divide the batter between two greased round pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—this part fills your kitchen with heavenly smells!
Prepare Your Frosting**: While your cakes cool down on a wire rack, whip up that dreamy cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until fluffy—yum!
Now you have all the steps needed to create this delightful Easter Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy each layer as you take bites filled with nostalgia and joy—it’s perfect for sharing or hiding away just for yourself!
You Must Know
- This delightful Easter Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not just a treat for the eyes but also a feast for the taste buds
- The moist texture and rich flavors make it a holiday favorite, perfect for any spring gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you mix your wet ingredients first. Then, combine the dry ingredients before folding everything together for a perfectly blended batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some of the carrots for crushed pineapple or add walnuts for extra crunch. You can even experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To enjoy it warm, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature
- Avoid overmixing your batter to keep it light and fluffy
- Don’t skimp on frosting; it’s what takes this cake to the next level!
The first time I baked this Easter Carrot Cake, my family couldn’t get enough! They laughed when I said it was “healthy” since it had carrots, but they devoured every crumb.
FAQ
What makes this Easter Carrot Cake so special?
The combination of moist carrots, warm spices, and rich cream cheese frosting creates a delightful flavor.
Can I use other nuts in the recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans or hazelnuts are great alternatives if you prefer something different.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Easter Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Delight in this moist Easter Carrot Cake layered with rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix eggs, oil, and vanilla until combined. Add to dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in the shredded carrots until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter into greased round pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Generously frost the cooled cakes and enjoy!
Notes
- For added flavor, consider incorporating crushed pineapple or nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg