Classic Carrot Cake with Double Layered Cream Cheese Frosting
There’s something so special about a beautiful, layered carrot cake that’s moist, spiced, and filled with creamy frosting. This classic recipe features two layers of cream cheese frosting inside and a topping layer for extra indulgence, making it perfect for Easter, holidays, birthdays, or any celebration.Slicing into this cake and seeing those creamy layers always makes dessert feel extra festive. It’s delicious, visually stunning, and works beautifully for family gatherings, brunches, or even packing slices for picnics and sharing with friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 340 g cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour one deep 9-inch round cake pan.Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.Add Carrots and Extras
Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using).Combine Wet and Dry
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing.Slice into Layers
Once fully cooled, use a serrated knife to carefully slice the cake horizontally into three even layers.Tip: For best results, chill the cake for 30–60 minutes before slicing to make cleaner, more even layers.Prepare the Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy and fluffy.Assemble the Cake
Place the bottom layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top.Add the second layer and repeat.Place the final layer on top and frost generously.Optionally frost the sides or leave them semi-naked for a rustic look.Decorate with chopped nuts, carrot decorations, or edible flowers.
Notes
Please note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using an online nutrition calculator.