Description
This Heavenly Carrot Apple Cake is a delightful blend of sweet apples and spicy carrots, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Topped with a creamy frosting, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 cup finely chopped apples (about 1 medium apple, peeled)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the grated carrots, chopped apples, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if using.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes (for a 9×13 pan) or 25-30 minutes (for 9-inch round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and adjust the consistency with milk if needed.
- Frost and Serve:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor and texture, consider mixing in raisins or shredded coconut.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, you can use whipped cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
