Carrot Sheet Cake

Carrot sheet cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this easy-to-make cake is a crowd-pleaser.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of oil, crushed pineapple, and grated carrots ensures a tender, moist crumb.
• Warm Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add depth and warmth to the cake’s flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy, creamy frosting complements the sweet and spiced cake perfectly.
• Easy Preparation: Baked in a 9×13-inch pan, this sheet cake is simpler to make and serve than layered cakes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Granulated sugar
• Light brown sugar
• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Crushed pineapple, drained
• Finely grated carrots
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)

directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.​
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and crushed pineapple.​
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in grated carrots and nuts (if using).​
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.​
6. Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.​
7. Prepare Frosting: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.​
8. Frost Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16–20
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 45–55 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes​

Variations

• Add-ins: Incorporate raisins, shredded coconut, or chopped dried apricots for added texture and flavor.
• Spice Blend: Enhance the spice profile with ground ginger or cloves.
• Frosting Twist: Add a touch of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a citrusy kick.
• Nut-Free: Omit nuts for a nut-free version.​

storage/reheating

• Storage: Cover and refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.
• Serving: Bring refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.​

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and frost it the next day.​

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

It’s best to grate fresh carrots for optimal moisture and texture, as pre-shredded carrots can be dry.​

Can I make this cake into cupcakes?

Absolutely. Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.​

How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?

Ensure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added, and measure your ingredients accurately.​

Can I use applesauce instead of pineapple?

Yes, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute for crushed pineapple, though it will slightly alter the flavor and moisture content.​

Conclusion

This carrot sheet cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress. Its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting make it a favorite for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is a perfect choice.​

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