Description

Carrot cake is a timeless classic, and this recipe takes it to a whole new level! With its unique twist of using carrot baby food, The Ultimate Moist and Flavorful Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting delivers unmatched tenderness and flavor. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and garnished with chopped pecans, this dessert is a surefire hit for birthdays, holidays, or simply treating yourself.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup vegetable or canola oil
3 jars (4 ounces each) carrot baby food (such as Gerber Stage 2)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
1 stick (½ cup) butter, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar

Optional Garnish:

Chopped pecans for decoration

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a single 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and oil. Stir in the carrot baby food until smooth.
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.

3. Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes (round pans) or 40–45 minutes (9×13-inch pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting over the top.
Add the second layer and frost the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top.
Garnish with chopped pecans on top or press them around the sides of the cake for a decorative finish.

6. Serve and Store

Slice the cake and serve immediately.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Notes

Make Ahead: The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
Customize It: Add raisins, coconut, or nuts into the batter for extra texture.
Frosting Tip: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American