When it comes to sweet treats that are a delight to both make and enjoy, a carrot cake never fails to impress. This classic dessert is loved for its moist texture, warm spices, and delicious cream cheese frosting. Here, we present a recipe for Mile High Carrot Cake that will elevate your baking game and leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or a weekend baking project, this cake is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
Title: Mile High Carrot Cake
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add the vegetable oil and eggs to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts if using, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
7. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat the frosting until light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake:
1. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first layer.
3. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
4. For an extra touch, you can decorate the cake with chopped nuts, shredded carrots, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This Mile High Carrot Cake is a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of moist cake layers, sweet carrots, and creamy frosting creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a craving for something sweet, this recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. So preheat that oven, grab your mixing bowls, and get ready to bake up a slice of heaven with this delicious Mile High Carrot Cake!
