EASY CARROT CAKE RECIPE with Cream Cheese Frosting

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cake flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: pecans

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are nut-free and more affordable.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: agave syrup

Honey offers natural sweetness with potential health benefits.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt.

In a separate large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until combined.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the applesauce and grated carrots until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Fold in the chopped pecans and raisins until evenly distributed.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

For the cream cheese frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.

Spread cream cheese frosting between the layers and on top of the cooled cakes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens