Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe [Brigadeiro Topping]

Brazilian carrot cake recipe blends sweet carrots with oil and eggs for a moist, rich texture. The taste is deeply satisfying, especially with the chocolate brigadeiro topping.

I made this Brazilian carrot cake recipe because I wanted something comforting yet unique. The main specialty of this Brazilian carrot cake recipe is its smooth carrot batter and fudgy chocolate glaze that sets it apart from traditional carrot cakes.

I will now show up and show step by step about this Brazilian carrot cake recipe so anyone can create this delicious treat at home.

Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe

This Brazilian carrot cake recipe is a beloved classic in Brazil, known for its vibrant orange color, smooth texture, and rich chocolate brigadeiro topping.

Unlike traditional carrot cakes with grated carrots and spices, this version blends carrots into a silky batter, creating a light, moist crumb.

The brigadeiro topping, made with sweetened condensed milk and dark chocolate, adds a fudgy, glossy finish that melts into every bite.

Simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both comforting and unique. This cake is often served at birthdays, afternoon coffee breaks, or family gatherings across Brazilian households.

How To Prepare Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe?

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Brazilian

Yield: 12 slices

Kitchen Utensils

• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spatula
• 9-inch round
• Medium saucepan
• Oven

Ingredients

Cake:

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1¼ cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Brigadeiro Topping:

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 can (14 oz / 395g) sweetened condensed milk
• 150 ml double cream
• 150 g dark chocolate, chopped or in chips
• ⅛ tsp salt

To make this Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe just right, we’ll walk through every step clearly and simply. I’ll share helpful tips and the kitchen tools that make baking easier, though you don’t need them all to succeed.

Using what you have, you can still create this moist, flavorful cake topped with rich brigadeiro. Follow along, and soon you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade treat!

How To Make Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch cake pan line it with parchment paper.

2. Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped carrots, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Blend until completely smooth – this gives the cake its signature texture and color.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually pour the carrot mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not over mix.

4. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Tap it lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Make the Brigadeiro Topping

While the cake is baking or cooling, make the brigadeiro topping. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sweetened condensed milk, double cream, chopped chocolate, and salt. Stir constantly for 10–15 minutes until thick and glossy. It should resemble a pourable ganache. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

6. Assemble and Serve

Pour the warm brigadeiro topping over the cooled carrot cake, spreading it gently with a spatula. Let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve as-is or with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings if desired.

Nutrition Facts Of Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	360
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Protein	5g
Sugar	28g
Fiber	2g

Why My Recipe Works

This Brazilian carrot cake recipe works because it uses blended carrots instead of grated ones, creating a smoother, tenderer crumb.

The oil keeps the cake moist for days, while the eggs help bind and lift the batter without making it heavy. Granulated sugar gives the perfect sweetness, balanced by the rich chocolate brigadeiro topping.

The baking powder ensures a good rise without being too dense. The brigadeiro glaze, made with sweetened condensed milk and dark chocolate, adds deep flavor and a soft, fudgy finish that contrasts perfectly with the light cake underneath.

How To Serve And Decorate Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe

Let the cake cool completely before adding the brigadeiro topping. Pour the warm brigadeiro over the top and spread it evenly with a spatula, allowing some to drip down the sides for a classic look. Let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

For serving, cut into square or triangular pieces and place on a dessert plate. Optionally, decorate with chocolate sprinkles, grated dark chocolate, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Serve with coffee or milk. This cake also pairs well with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips And Tricks For The Perfect Brazilian Carrot Cake

● Use fresh carrots: Fresh, sweet carrots give the best flavor and color. Avoid pre-packaged or older carrots, which can be dry and dull.

● Blend until smooth: For the signature texture, blend the carrots, oil, and eggs until completely smooth. A good blender makes a big difference here.

● Don’t over mix the batter: After combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.

● Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Avoid over baking or the cake will dry out.

● Cool the cake before topping: Let the cake cool fully before adding the brigadeiro so the topping sets nicely and doesn’t melt off.

● Double the brigadeiro for extra indulgence: Love chocolate? Make a bit more topping and serve extra on the side or drizzle over individual slices.

● Refrigerate for clean slices: If you want neater cuts, chill the cake for 30–60 minutes before slicing. The topping will firm up beautifully.

Additions And Substitutions

Additions:

➢ For extra texture, try folding in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. You can also sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the brigadeiro for a tropical twist.

Substitutions:

➢ Replace vegetable oil with light olive oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.

➢ Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a nuttier, healthier option (expect a denser cake).

➢ Swap dark chocolate in the topping for milk chocolate for a sweeter, milder taste.

➢ If you don’t have double cream, heavy cream or half-and-half works well too.

Variations OF Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe

➤ Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh orange or lime zest to the batter for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake and topping.

➤ Spiced Version: Incorporate 1 teaspoon cinnamon and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic touch.

➤ Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (3 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) and use coconut cream instead of double cream for the topping. Use dairy-free chocolate.

➤ Nut-Free: Skip any nuts and use oat flour instead of wheat for a gluten-friendly twist.

➤ Mini Cakes or Cupcakes: Bake the batter in cupcake liners for individual portions—perfect for parties or gifting. Top each with brigadeiro frosting.

How To Store Leftovers

To keep your Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The brigadeiro topping stays creamy and delicious when chilled. The cake will last for up to 4 days.

Before serving, you can bring slices to room temperature or warm them slightly for a softer texture and richer flavor. Avoid freezing, as the creamy topping may change texture.

Personal Touch Or Story

This Brazilian carrot cake recipe has a special place in my heart. Growing up, it was a staple at family gatherings and birthday parties, always bringing everyone together around the table.

The rich chocolate brigadeiro topping reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would lovingly stir it on the stove while sharing stories.

Making this Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe connects me to those warm memories and traditions, and now I enjoy passing it on to friends and family so they can experience that same joy and comfort.

FAQs About Brazilian Carrot Cake

Conclusion

My easy and delicious Brazilian carrot cake recipe process brings together simple steps and rich flavors. The smooth carrot base and creamy brigadeiro topping create a cake that’s both unique and satisfying.

I’ve shared every detail to help guide you through making it yourself. I hope you easily understand each step and feel confident to try it soon in your own kitchen.

This Brazilian Carrot Cake Recipe is a favorite for a reason, and now you have everything you need to enjoy it at home. Give it a try and enjoy every bite.

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