Jamaican Carrot Cake Recipe

Have you ever tried a Jamaican Carrot Cake Recipe that’s so moist, spiced to perfection, and topped with the creamiest frosting? This show-stopping dessert is as versatile as it is delicious, packed with warm mixed spice, sweet raisins, and finely grated carrots for a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe promises to impress. And let’s not forget the luxurious cream cheese frosting—it’s the crowning glory that ties everything together. Ready to create a treat everyone will rave about? Let’s get started!

1. What Makes This Recipe Great

There’s something truly magical about a carrot cake that strikes the perfect balance between moist, spiced, and utterly irresistible—and this Jamaican-inspired version does just that. It’s not your average carrot cake; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and thoughtful techniques that elevate it to dessert royalty.

Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Moist and Flavorful: The combination of sunflower oil and fresh carrots ensures the cake stays tender and rich.

Versatile Appeal: Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or a casual tea-time snack, this cake fits every occasion.

Customizable: Feel free to tweak it to your liking—add nuts, swap raisins for dried cranberries, or even sprinkle a hint of citrus zest for brightness.

2. Ingredients Breakdown and Substitutions

Let’s talk ingredients—the heart and soul of this Jamaican carrot cake . Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moisture. Don’t worry, you likely already have most of these pantry staples on hand!

For the Carrot Cake:

• Caster sugar : Finer than granulated sugar, it dissolves beautifully into the batter for a smooth, even sweetness. If you can’t find caster sugar, pulse regular sugar in a blender until fine.
• Eggs : These act as the binding agents, giving the cake structure while keeping it light and airy.
• Sunflower oil : Unlike butter, oil keeps the cake incredibly moist without weighing it down. Plus, it lets those warm spices shine through.
• Mixed spice : This is where the Jamaican flair comes in! A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice adds warmth and complexity to every bite.
• Finely grated carrots : Freshly grated carrots are key—they release moisture as they bake, making the cake tender and flavorful. Skip the pre-shredded ones from the store; they’re too dry.
• Raisins : These little gems add a touch of sweetness and a delightful chewy texture. Love nuts? Swap them out or add some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Powdered sugar (sifted) : Sifting removes lumps and ensures your frosting is silky-smooth. Trust me, this step is worth it!
• Cream cheese : Use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature—it blends effortlessly and provides that signature tangy richness.
• Unsalted butter : Softened butter helps create a stable, creamy base for the frosting.
• Vanilla extract : A splash of vanilla ties everything together, adding depth and aroma.

Pro Tip: Before you start, gather and measure all your ingredients. It’s a simple step that makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. And remember, fresh ingredients always yield the best results!

3. How to Make Jamaican Carrot Cake: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

Start by whisking together the caster sugar, eggs, and sunflower oil in a large mixing bowl. You’re aiming for a thick, glossy mixture that feels smooth and cohesive. This is the foundation of your cake, so take your time here—it sets the stage for everything else.

Next, gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and mixed spice. The key word here is gently —overmixing can make the cake dense, and we’re going for light and airy. Once combined, stir in the finely grated carrots and raisins until evenly distributed. You’ll notice how the vibrant orange carrots bring the batter to life—it’s almost as if the cake is already promising to be amazing!

Step 2: Baking the Cake

Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C) and prepare your baking tins. Grease them well and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula for an even bake.

Pop the tins into the oven and let the magic happen. Bake for 70-80 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to protect it.

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the tins for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial—it allows the cake to set and makes frosting much easier later on.

Step 3: Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, whip up the star of the show—the cream cheese frosting . In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid clouds of sugar flying everywhere. Finish with a splash of vanilla extract for that extra touch of warmth.

If the frosting feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly. This will make it easier to spread without losing its luxurious texture.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, it’s time to assemble. Spread a generous layer of frosting between the layers (if using two tins) and over the top and sides of the cake. Use a spatula or piping bag to get creative with your design—whether you prefer rustic swirls or sleek, smooth finishes, there’s no wrong way to frost this beauty.

Pro Tip: For a professional touch, chill the frosted cake for 15 minutes before serving. It helps the frosting set and makes slicing cleaner.

And there you have it—a stunning Jamaican carrot cake ready to impress! Next, I’ll share some expert tips and fun variations to make this recipe truly your own.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Desserts Section.

4. Pro Tips and Variations

Let’s take this Jamaican carrot cake to the next level with some expert tips and creative twists. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these suggestions will help you perfect the recipe and make it uniquely yours.

Pro Tips for Success

• Grate Your Carrots Fresh : Pre-shredded carrots from the store are often too dry and won’t release the moisture needed to keep the cake tender. Grab a box grater or food processor—it’s worth the extra effort!
• Don’t Overmix the Batter : Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we’re aiming for light, airy perfection.
• Test for Doneness : If the skewer comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes. But if it has moist crumbs clinging to it, that’s your cue—it’s done!
• Chill the Frosting : If your frosting feels too soft to spread neatly, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before using. It’ll firm up without losing its creamy texture.

Fun Variations to Try

Why not put your own spin on this classic? Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add Nuts for Crunch : Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and nutty flavor. Toast them first for an even richer taste.
• Swap Raisins for Dried Cranberries : If raisins aren’t your thing, dried cranberries bring a tangy-sweet twist that pairs beautifully with the spices.
• Zest It Up : Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a burst of citrus brightness—it complements the warm spices beautifully.
• Go Gluten-Free : Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make this cake accessible for everyone. Just ensure your blend includes xanthan gum for structure.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature : Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Freshness : If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake (covered) for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
• Freeze for Future Treats : Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

5. Serving Suggestions

Now that your Jamaican carrot cake is ready, let’s talk about how to serve it in a way that wows your guests (or just makes your day a little sweeter). Presentation matters, but don’t worry—it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some ideas to make your cake the star of the show:

Presentation Tips

• Layer It Up : If you’ve baked two loaf tins or a single round cake, consider slicing it horizontally and layering it with frosting in between. It adds height and elegance to your dessert.
• Get Creative with Frosting : Use a piping bag to add decorative swirls or rosettes on top. No piping bag? A zip-top bag with the corner snipped off works just as well! For a rustic look, spread the frosting with a spatula and gently drag a fork through it for texture.
• Garnish Like a Pro : Sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg over the frosted cake for a fragrant finishing touch. Or, add a scattering of chopped nuts, toasted coconut flakes, or even edible flowers for extra flair.

Pairings to Elevate the Experience

This cake is versatile enough to pair with a variety of drinks, depending on the occasion:

• For Tea Time: Serve slices alongside a steaming cup of black tea or spiced chai. The warm spices in the cake complement the tea beautifully.
• For Coffee Lovers: Pair it with a rich espresso or creamy latte for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• For a Tropical Twist : Offer a glass of rum punch or a citrusy cocktail to lean into the Jamaican inspiration.

Occasions to Shine

This Jamaican carrot cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion:

• Birthdays: Skip the traditional chocolate cake and surprise your loved ones with this moist, spiced delight. Add candles for an instant celebration!
• Holidays: The warm spices make it perfect for festive gatherings like Christmas or Thanksgiving.
• Casual Treats : Slice it up for weekend brunches, potlucks, or even a cozy night in with family.

Leftovers? No Problem!

If you have leftover cake (though I doubt there will be much), store it properly to keep it fresh. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go treats, or freeze them for future indulgence.

Explore More Delicious Recipes​:

• Chocolate Carrot Cake Recipe
• Lemon Pound Cake Recipe
• Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe
• Sundrop Pound Cake Recipe

6. FAQs About the Best Jamaican Carrot Cake

Got questions? Don’t worry—I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries about this Jamaican carrot cake to help you feel confident and prepared before diving in.

With these tips and answers, you’re ready to tackle this Jamaican carrot cake like a pro. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!

The Best Jamaican Carrot Cake Recipe Ever

Michael

This Jamaican carrot cake combines finely grated carrots, warm mixed spice, and plump raisins for a moist, flavorful base. Topped with silky cream cheese frosting, it’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for celebrations or cozy indulgence.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Jamaican

Servings 12 slices

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups 400g caster sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1.65 cups 400ml sunflower oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups 400g flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice
• 400 g finely grated carrots
• 125 g raisins

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 cups 600g powdered sugar, sifted to remove any lumps
• 1 lb 480g cream cheese, at room temperature
• ½ cup 120g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

Preparing the Carrot Cake:

• In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and oil until thick.
• Gently mix in the flour, baking powder, and mixed spice.
• Add the grated carrots and raisins, and mix until well combined.
• Grease and line a 9-inch cake tin or use two 900g (2lb) loaf tins.
• Pour the batter into the tins and bake in a preheated oven at 340°F (170°C) for 70-80 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
• Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and smooth (avoid overbeating).
• Chill the frosting until ready to use.

Keyword Carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, Jamaican spices, moist cake, festive dessert

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