Carrot cake is a timeless dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, and it’s loved for its moist texture. While many recipes can seem complicated, this one keeps things simple.
With only a few basic ingredients and minimal steps, you’ll be able to bake a delicious carrot cake without any hassle. Whether you're a beginner baker or just looking for a quick recipe, this guide will provide you with everything you need to create a mouthwatering treat that will impress your friends.
1. Minimal Ingredients for Carrot Cake
To make this carrot cake, you don’t need a long list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a simple, flavorful cake:
For the Cake:
1.All-purpose flour – 1 ½ cups
2.Baking powder – 1 ½ teaspoons
3.Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
4.Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
5.Salt – ¼ teaspoon
6.Granulated sugar – 1 cup
7.Vegetable oil – 1 cup
8.Large eggs – 3
9.Grated carrots – 2 cups (freshly grated for maximum moisture)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1.Cream cheese – 8 oz (softened)
2.Unsalted butter – ¼ cup (softened)
3.Powdered sugar – 3-4 cups (to taste)
4.Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
2. Minimal Step-by-Step Guide
This simple recipe requires only a few steps and minimal time to bake. Here's how to make your carrot cake:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 330°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and vegetable oil together until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, and stir in the grated carrots. If you like, you can add the chopped walnuts or pecans at this point.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should remain thick and slightly lumpy due to the carrots.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re using two pans, check for doneness around 25-30 minutes.
3. Tips for a Perfect Carrot Cake
Use fresh carrots: Grate fresh carrots yourself for the best moisture and flavor. Pre-grated carrots can be drier and less flavorful.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense, heavy cake. Stir the batter until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
This simple carrot cake recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bake a delicious dessert with minimal fuss. With just a handful of ingredients, easy steps, and a creamy cream cheese frosting, you’ll have a moist, flavorful cake that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a novice baker or just want to make something quick and tasty, this carrot cake will not disappoint.
