Southern Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen

I can’t help but feel pure joy every time I bake Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen! The process is so simple, yet the result is always extraordinary.

The combination of warm spices like cinnamon, the sweet taste of grated carrots, and the rich, creamy cream cheese frosting is unbeatable.

I love how the Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen is moist and full of flavor, with just the right amount of sweetness. Adding chopped pecans gives it an extra crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and taste.

Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen my go-to dessert for any celebration or just a cozy treat at home. Every slice brings a smile to my face!

Why You Will Choose Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen?

Paula Deen, renowned for her Southern cooking and warm, inviting style, offers a carrot cake recipe that is rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Choosing Paula Deen’s version of carrot cake comes with several benefits:

1. Authentic Southern Flavor: Paula Deen’s recipes often feature traditional Southern ingredients and techniques, giving her carrot cake an authentic Southern twist.

2. Rich and Moist Texture: Her recipe is known for its moist crumb and rich flavor, a result of her use of quality ingredients and specific baking techniques.

3. Simple Yet Delicious: Paula Deen’s approach to cooking emphasizes comfort and simplicity, making her recipes accessible and enjoyable for home bakers of all skill levels.

Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen

Recipe Details

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Calories: 320

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Serving size: 15 servings

Kitchen Utensils

• 2 mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Grater (for the carrots)
• 9×13-inch baking pan (or two 9-inch round cake pans)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Knife (for chopping nuts, if using)
• Rubber spatula or offset spatula (for frosting)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 cups finely grated carrots
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

How To Make Carrot Cake Recipe Paula Deen

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13-inch baking pan, or line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.

3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the vegetable oil, mixing until fully incorporated.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Add the Carrots and Nuts

Stir in the grated carrots and, if using, the chopped pecans. Mix until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan(s). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using round pans, you may need to check for doneness a few minutes earlier or later, depending on the oven.

7. Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue to beat until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

9. Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake. If desired, sprinkle the frosting with the chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve your delicious carrot cake! Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Can I Make This Carrot Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the carrot cake ahead of time. The cake can be baked a day or two in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to frost it later.

If you’re planning to frost it right away, you can also refrigerate it to ensure it stays fresh. Once frosted, it should be kept in the refrigerator.

How Can I Adjust The Sweetness Of The Cake?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the batter. Start by cutting the sugar by about 1/4 cup and adjust according to your taste.

Keep in mind that the cream cheese frosting will still be sweet, so you might need to adjust the sweetness of the frosting as well.

Can I Substitute The Crushed Pineapple With Another Fruit?

Yes, you can substitute crushed pineapple with other fruits like finely chopped apples or pears. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from the fruit to prevent the cake from becoming too moist.

The pineapple adds both sweetness and moisture, so choose a fruit that will complement these qualities.

How Can I Make The Cake More Flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the carrot cake, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger.

You can also incorporate additional spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. For extra texture and flavor, try adding a handful of shredded coconut or a few raisins to the batter.

Can I Freeze The Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the carrot cake. To freeze, wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container.

The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw the cake at room temperature before frosting. If the cake is already frosted, place it in the refrigerator to thaw and serve.

More Carrot Cake Recipes You’ll Love

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Publix Carrot Cake Recipe || Make At Home

Carrot Eggless Cake Recipe – Delicious Treat

Conclusion

Carrot cake recipe paula deen embodies the essence of Southern baking: comforting, flavorful, and made with a generous dose of love.

This carrot cake recipe paula deen not only delights with its tender crumb and vibrant flavor but also carries with it the spirit of gathering and sharing cherished moments with loved ones. Each bite is a reminder of the joy that simple, homemade desserts can bring.

As you slice into this cake and savor its rich, spiced sweetness, you’re not just enjoying a treat; you’re partaking in a time-honored tradition that celebrates the heartwarming pleasures of good food and good company.