There is no more classic Easter dessert than a moist carrot cake; we have scoured the internet for the best recipe! This silky cream cheese frosting is optional – it makes a sweet and decadent dessert with the frosting, but without makes for a great snack or breakfast loaf option.

Ingredients:

Cake:

  • 2 cups whole-wheat pastry flour
  • 1 3/4 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 cups coarsely grated carrots (about 1 pound)

Light Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

  • 12 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

For the cake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Spray a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray; line it with a piece of parchment paper, leaving an 1-inch overhang on 2 sides and spray the paper.
  3. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice in a medium bowl.
  4. In another medium bowl, whisk the eggs and sugars until pale; whisk in the oil, then the buttermilk and vanilla.
  5. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold in the carrots.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, 35 to 40 minutes.
  8. Cool completely on a wire rack. Using the parchment overhang, remove the cake from the pan.
  9. Frost the cooled cake with Light Creamy Frosting, if desired.
  10. Cut into 16 (2 by 3-inch) pieces and serve.

For the frosting:

  1. In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla.
  2. Spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
  3. Enjoy!!

Suggested Topping or Add-Ins

  • Pecans or raisins
  • Sprinkle your favourite nuts on top
  • Add some coconut
  • Top with colourful sprinkles

This delicious carrot cake is a perfect dessert option for your Easter gatherings. You don’t have to show up empty handed 😉

Source:

How to Make Homemade Carrot Cake | Easy Carrot Cake Recipe | Food Network Kitchen | Food Network