Are you ready to experience a slice of pure heaven? Tonya's Terrific Carrot Cake is not just another dessert – it's a magical journey of flavors that will transform your ordinary day into an extraordinary culinary adventure! Imagine a moist, tender cake packed with fresh carrots, warm cinnamon, and an option to add crunchy walnuts, all topped with creamy frosting that will make your mouth water. This isn't just a recipe; it's a celebration of comfort and deliciousness that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easier removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of cinnamon, 1 tsp of baking soda, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Whisk together until well mixed and set aside.
- In another large bowl, beat together the 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the 4 large eggs to the sugar and oil mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the 3 cups of grated carrots and, if using, the 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Mix until the carrots and walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops if necessary.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, you can prepare your favorite cream cheese frosting or any frosting of your choice to top the cake.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top of the frosted layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- For an added touch, you can decorate the cake with additional chopped walnuts or grated carrots on top. Slice and serve to enjoy Tonya's Terrific Carrot Cake!
Tips
- Use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best texture and moisture
- Don't overmix the batter – this can make the cake tough
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing
- Use a box grater for carrots instead of a food processor for better texture
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
- For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of applesauce to the batter
- Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh
- For best flavor, let the cake sit for a few hours before serving to allow flavors to meld
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 322kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
