Quick Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.

3. **Mix the Wet Ingredients:**
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
– Add the oil and vanilla extract, and continue whisking until combined.

4. **Add the Grated Carrots:**
– Stir the grated carrots into the wet ingredients. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix—stir just until everything is incorporated.
– If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins for extra flavor and texture.

6. **Bake the Cake:**
– Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
– Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. **Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
– While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
– Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and continue beating until everything is well combined.

8. **Frost the Cake:**
– Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top. You can frost just the top or the sides of the cake if you prefer a more decadent layer of frosting.
– If you like, you can garnish the cake with extra chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a decorative touch.

9. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Slice and serve the cake! It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. This cake also keeps well in the fridge for a few days, and the flavors just get better as it sits.

### Tips for the Best Carrot Cake

– **Use Fresh Carrots:** For the best flavor and texture, use fresh carrots that you grate yourself. Pre-shredded carrots tend to be drier and less flavorful.

– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can result in a denser cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

– **Add-ins Are Optional:** This carrot cake is great on its own, but you can easily add nuts, raisins, or shredded coconut to the batter for more texture and flavor.

– **Room Temperature Ingredients:** Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before making the frosting. This will help create a smooth, creamy frosting without lumps.

– **Storage:** Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The cake also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last for up to 3 months.

### Variations You Can Try

1. **Gluten-Free Version:** Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your baking soda and powder are gluten-free. The result will be just as moist and delicious!

2. **Vegan Carrot Cake:** To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based butter substitute and dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

3. **Carrot Cake Cupcakes:** Turn this recipe into carrot cake cupcakes by dividing the batter into a cupcake tin and baking for about 18-20 minutes. Top with frosting for the perfect individual-sized treat!

### Final Thoughts

This **Quick Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting** is the ultimate dessert for anyone craving something sweet, moist, and full of flavor—but without all the hassle. The easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can whip up a delicious homemade cake in no time, and the cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon treat, this carrot cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking!