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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking your cake.
- Prepare Pans: Grease two cake pans, a cupcake pan, or a 9x11-inch pan. You can also use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- Add Ingredients: Fold in shredded carrots along with any optional add-ins like crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and raisins until evenly incorporated.
- Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased or lined pans.
- 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.
- Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pans for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 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