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Simple Carrot Cake Recipe


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4 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Lea
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This simple carrot cake recipe combines a classic spice cake mix with fresh shredded carrots and optional additions like pineapple, pecans, and raisins for added texture and flavor. Finished with a creamy cream cheese frosting, it's a moist and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 Spice Cake Mix (Betty Crocker brand recommended)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted (salted or unsalted)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup crushed, drained pineapple (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Frosting

  • Cream Cheese Frosting (store bought or homemade)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking your cake.
  2. Prepare Pans: Grease two cake pans, a cupcake pan, or a 9x11-inch pan. You can also use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  3. Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until the batter is smooth and well blended.
  4. Add Ingredients: Fold in shredded carrots along with any optional add-ins like crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and raisins until evenly incorporated.
  5. Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased or lined pans.
  6. Bake Cake: Bake in the preheated oven following the spice cake mix package directions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, usually about 25-35 minutes depending on the pan size.
  7. Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pans for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Frost Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Do not follow the instructions on the cake mix box; use this recipe’s method for the best results.
  • The optional pineapple adds moisture and sweetness, but can be omitted if preferred.
  • Chopped pecans and raisins add texture and flavor but can be left out for a nut-free version.
  • Ensure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • If using cupcake pans, reduce baking time to about 18-22 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American