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The Timeless Charm of Carrot Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Embrace the warmth of fall flavors with this Golden Harvest Carrot Cake! Moist, spiced layers of carrot-infused goodness come together with a rich, creamy maple-kissed frosting, creating a cake that’s both indulgent and comforting. Perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings, this dessert will have everyone coming back for seconds!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Carrot Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
  • 1/2 cup raisins optional
For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat and Prep
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish or two 8-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Dry Meets Wet
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Whisking the Magic
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Slowly add in the oil, applesauce, and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Carrot Bliss
  1. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir in the grated carrots, pecans, and raisins (if using) until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
  1. Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s). Bake for 30-35 minutes (for round pans) or 40-45 minutes (for a sheet cake) until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Whipping Up the Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add in powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until creamy and fluffy.
Step 7: Frost and Feast
  1. Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make ahead! The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container before frosting.
  • Want extra texture? Add shredded coconut or chopped walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch.
  • Prefer a lighter frosting? Use whipped cream cheese for a fluffier texture.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days, covered in an airtight container.

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