Unbelievable Carrot Carrot
Prepare to indulge in the decadently moist and flavor-packed *Unbelievable Carrot Carrot* cake—an elevated twist on the classic dessert that lives up to its name! This showstopping treat combines freshly grated carrots, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of bright orange zest for a vibrant depth of flavor. The secret lies in its ultra-tender texture, thanks to the addition of unsweetened applesauce and a perfectly balanced blend of sugars. Topped with a thick, velvety cream cheese frosting and optional crunchy walnuts, this two-layer masterpiece is as visually stunning as it is delicious. In just under an hour, this easy-to-make carrot cake will become the irresistible centerpiece of any gathering, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a sweet-toothed newbie, this recipe guarantees crowd-pleasing results every single time.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 0.75 cups vegetable oil
- 0.5 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups freshly grated carrots
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 0.5 cups chopped walnuts (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cups butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the vegetable oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and orange zest, and mix until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the grated carrots and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate with additional walnut pieces or grated carrots, if desired. Slice and serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
6509 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 234.3 g | 300% | |
| Saturated Fat | 117.7 g | 588% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1067 mg | 356% | |
| Sodium | 6783 mg | 295% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1064.9 g | 387% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 36.7 g | 131% | |
| Total Sugars | 820.1 g | ||
| Protein | 76.7 g | 153% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.1 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 800 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 20.9 mg | 116% | |
| Potassium | 3674 mg | 78% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
