Chocolate Carrot Cake Recipe
This Chocolate Carrot Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s equal parts indulgent and wholesome. With its rich cocoa flavor, tender crumb, and tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to become your new go-to treat!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour or almond flour for gluten-free
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs or flax eggs for vegan
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups freshly grated carrots finely grated, patted dry
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened (use plant-based for vegan)
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened (or vegan butter)
- 3 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs (or flax eggs), and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
Add Carrots:
- Fold in the grated carrots gently until evenly distributed.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool:
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
Assemble and Frost:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then add the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice, serve, and savor your decadent Chocolate Carrot Cake , now beautifully garnished with walnuts and raisins!