Southern Carrot Cake Recipe
Indulge in the classic Southern Carrot Cake, featuring moist layers packed with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and warm spices. Topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, this delectable dessert embodies Southern hospitality in every bite. Perfect for any occasion!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Grater (for carrots)
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Cooling rack
- Spatula or butter knife
- Small bowl for frosting
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 16 oz box powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots about 4-5 large carrots
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 8 oz packages cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 stick salted butter room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add the Carrots and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans (or walnuts). Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until fluffy. If desired, add a little more vanilla extract for flavor.
Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with extra chopped pecans or walnuts.
Serve:
- Slice and enjoy your delicious Southern Carrot Cake!
Notes
Southern carrot cake is all about balancing the moistness of the cake with the richness of the cream cheese frosting.
If you want to elevate the flavor even further, feel free to add a pinch of allspice or cloves to the dry ingredients for extra warmth.
I personally love the addition of pineapple because it gives the cake an extra touch of sweetness and moisture, making every bite even more irresistible.
Also, if you’re not a fan of nuts or coconut, you can simply omit them. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to make it your own!