Best Carrot Cake Ever
Moist, flavorful, and foolproof—this is the only carrot cake recipe you’ll ever need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with flavor from fresh carrots and pineapple
- Ultra-moist and even better the next day
- No mixer or fancy tools required
- Crunchy walnuts add amazing texture
- Classic, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser
Ingredients
- 6 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup raisins
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Pro Tip: Always use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture!
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix grated carrots and brown sugar. Let sit for 60 minutes, then stir in raisins.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 10-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs until light. Gradually mix in white sugar, oil, and vanilla. Stir in drained pineapple.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir into wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the carrot mixture and chopped walnuts.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks. Let cool completely before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting Suggestions
This carrot cake pairs beautifully with a classic cream cheese frosting. Try this quick version:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Beat all ingredients together until smooth. Frost cake when fully cooled.