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Easy Carrot Cake

Easy Carrot Cake

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Carrot Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of carrots and cinnamon with rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in, this easy-to-make cake will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 15 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box Yellow cake mix (13.25 oz-15.25 oz)
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil (canola oil will work too)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 tsp cinnamon (or 2.5 tsp)
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 2 cups shredded carrots (well packed)
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • 2/3 cup crushed pineapple (in juices)
  • 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
  • 1 container cream cheese frosting (16 oz)
  • 6 oz softened cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures the cake bakes evenly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, milk, oil, sour cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to stir the ingredients vigorously for about 2 minutes.
  3. Once your mixture is smooth, gently fold in the crushed pineapple (with juices), shredded carrots, and chopped pecans.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a well-greased 9x13 inch baking pan. If you choose to use different sizes or shapes, ensure to follow the package instructions for baking times.
  5. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 27 to 32 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean.
  6. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Cooling is essential before icing.
  7. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the entire container of cream cheese frosting, brown sugar, and softened cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  8. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting generously over the top. Feel free to get creative and add green and orange sprinkles or shredded coconut for decoration.
  9. Chill the frosted cake until you are ready to serve. Or, if you're eager, dig right in! Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep your leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cake unfrosted for better results. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last up to 3 months.
  • Layer cake option: This recipe is versatile! You can turn it into a layer cake by simply baking it in two round pans instead of one rectangular pan.
  • Texture variations: Consider adding a bit of shredded coconut or additional nuts for varied texture in the cake.
  • Pan types matter: The type of baking pan used can affect the bake time and texture of your cake. Glass pans may require longer baking time.
  • Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure a light, fluffy cake.