This carrot cake recipe with butter offers a decadent twist on the classic dessert. Its rich, moist texture and creamy, buttery frosting make it a surefire crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Adding fresh carrots and warm spices creates a delectable flavor profile while using butter contributes to its irresistible moistness.
This indulgent treat is perfect for those with a sweet tooth and is bound to become a favorite in any home bakery. Prepare for an experience where every decadent bite promises enjoyment!
Why This Recipe Is The Best?
This recipe goes beyond the box mix. It allows you to control the quality of ingredients and create an exceptional cake.
The brown butter adds a nutty depth of flavor you can’t replicate with shortcuts. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make – perfect for beginner bakers or those short on time.
How To Prepare Carrot Cake Recipe With Butter?
Recipe Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes (plus cooling time)
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: Serves 12
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
- Spatula
- Whisk
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- One teaspoon of baking soda
- One teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- Three large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How To Make Carrot Cake Recipe With Butter
1. Brown the Butter:
This is the secret weapon! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Watch closely as it simmers and turns a golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prep the Dry Ingredients:
Whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream the Buttery Goodness:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and cooled brown butter.
4. Incorporate the Wet and Dry:
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the applesauce. Mix until just combined, then fold in the grated carrots.
5. Bake Until Golden:
Pour the batter into a greased and parchment-lined baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Frosting Heaven (Optional):
While the cake cools, whip up the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until light and fluffy. Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake.
7. Slice and Savor!
Let the cake chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts Carrot Cake Recipe With Butter
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 40g |
Sugar | 25g |
Protein | 3g |
FAQs About Carrot Cake Recipe With Butter
Can I use margarine instead of butter in the recipe?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter in the recipe.
How can I make a dairy-free version of this carrot cake using a butter substitute?
To make a dairy-free version of the carrot cake, you can use a dairy-free butter substitute like coconut oil or vegetable shortening.
What kind of butter is best for this carrot cake recipe – salted or unsalted?
Either salted or unsalted butter can be used in this carrot cake recipe, depending on your personal preference.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter to enhance the flavor and texture of the cake?
Adding nuts or raisins to the batter is a great idea to enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.
Conclusion
This carrot cake recipe with butter offers a delicious twist on a beloved dessert. The addition of butter creates a rich and velvety texture, enhancing the overall taste and indulgence of the cake.
With its moist crumb and flavourful spices, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself.
So why not give this recipe a try and elevate your carrot cake experience with the creamy goodness of butter?
Carrot Cake Recipe With Butter
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
- Spatula
- Whisk
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- One teaspoon of baking soda
- One teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- Three large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Brown the Butter:
- This is the secret weapon! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Watch closely as it simmers and turns a golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prep the Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Cream the Buttery Goodness:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and cooled brown butter.
Incorporate the Wet and Dry:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the applesauce. Mix until just combined, then fold in the grated carrots.
Bake Until Golden:
- Pour the batter into a greased and parchment-lined baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting Heaven (Optional):
- While the cake cools, whip up the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until light and fluffy. Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake.
Slice and Savor!
- Let the cake chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.