Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Caramel-Glazed Carrot Cake layered with tangy cream cheese frosting. This cake combines the comforting warmth of a spiced carrot cake with the richness of homemade caramel glaze, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations. With its moist texture and irresistible sweetness, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Baking enthusiasts looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Home cooks eager to impress at parties, holidays, or family gatherings.
- Those who love the balance of earthy carrots, warm spices, and decadent toppings.
Why It’s Great
- Moist and Flavorful Layers: The grated carrots and spices create a perfectly moist cake bursting with flavor.
- Rich Caramel Glaze: A shiny, golden caramel layer elevates the cake to gourmet levels.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy frosting provides the perfect balance to the sweet caramel glaze.
- Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or pineapple to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Cooling rack
- Saucepan (for caramel glaze)
- Offset spatula or spoon (for frosting and glazing)
- Grater (for carrots)
Instructions
1. Make the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix eggs, oil, and vanilla. Gradually add wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots.
- Divide batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
3. Make the Caramel Glaze:
- Heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and amber in color.
- Add butter and stir until combined. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring. Let cool slightly before using.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Spread cream cheese frosting between the two cake layers and over the top and sides.
- Drizzle the caramel glaze over the frosted cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers up to two days ahead and store them tightly wrapped. Frost and glaze the cake on the day of serving for the best results.
2. Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Freshly grated carrots work best as they retain more moisture and natural sweetness.
3. Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely! A whipped cream frosting or buttercream can also pair well with this cake.
Conclusion
This Caramel-Glazed Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a must-try for anyone who loves indulgent, beautifully layered desserts. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake guarantees smiles and satisfied taste buds. With its perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Try it today and let the compliments roll in!
