Intro:
Indulging in a slice of rich, moist carrot cake is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Elevate your baking game with a delicious twist on a classic favorite – Memphis City Schools Carrot Cake. This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet, spiced flavors and the moist texture that makes carrot cake irresistible. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your family and friends with a delightful homemade treat.
Memphis City Schools Carrot Cake
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp ground nutmeg
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed.
7. Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Increase speed and beat until smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
4. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer.
5. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
6. Optional: Garnish with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of Memphis City Schools Carrot Cake with a cup of tea or coffee, or impress your guests with a homemade dessert that celebrates the cozy comforts of home. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire, perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking!
