The Best Homemade Carrot Cake for Easter: A Moist & Flavorful Recipe
Easter is the perfect time to indulge in a delicious homemade carrot cake! Whether you're hosting a festive Easter brunch or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat with your loved ones, this easy carrot cake recipe will be a showstopper. This moist and flavorful cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting.
Making a carrot cake from scratch is easier than you think, and with the right ingredients and tools, you can create a bakery-quality dessert right at home. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to baking the perfect Easter carrot cake, along with helpful tips and recommended kitchen tools to make your baking experience even better.

Ingredients (Serves 12-14)
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (300g) finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
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In another large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
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Fold in the grated carrots, applesauce, and nuts (if using).
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake
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Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
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Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.
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Garnish with additional chopped nuts or carrots candy for decoration.

Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake
- Use freshly grated carrots: Pre-shredded carrots are too dry. Grate fresh carrots for a moist cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and frosting.
- Refrigerate before serving: Chilling the cake for an hour enhances the flavors and texture.
- Best tools for baking: A stand mixer (Check on Amazon), cooling racks (Buy Here), and a cake turntable (Recommended Cake Turntables) make the process easier.
This homemade Easter carrot cake is the ultimate holiday dessert that combines rich flavors with a moist, tender crumb. Topped with creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to be a hit at your Easter celebration! Whether you're baking for family or hosting a festive gathering, this classic carrot cake will bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
Similar Pages:
- How to Make Easter-Colored Deviled Eggs
- Easter Chocolate-Inspired Cocktails: A Sweet Celebration of Spring
- The Ultimate Guide to Easter Party Decorations: Transform Your Home into a Spring Wonderland
- How to Organize the Perfect Easter Egg Hunt: Tips, Ideas & Planning Guide
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