Home
Recipes
Cakes
Layer Cakes
Carrot Layer Cake Recipe

Carrot Layer Cake Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade carrot layer cake with this easy baking recipe. Perfectly moist layers packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with tangy cream cheese frosting. This foolproof recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time!
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
A towering three-layer carrot cake photographed in warm natural light, with a cross-section view revealing its vibrant orange-flecked interior and creamy frosting layers. The exterior features a rustic, slightly textured cream cheese frosting application with decorative swirls around the top edge. Caramelized walnuts cascade down one side while fresh orange zest and tiny carrot decorations add color contrast. The cake sits on a distressed wooden cake stand against a neutral linen backdrop, with scattered cinnamon sticks, whole carrots with their green tops, and crushed walnuts artfully arranged around the base to hint at the key ingredients.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">350g carrots, finely grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">300g plain flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp baking powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp bicarbonate of soda</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tsp ground cinnamon</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp ground nutmeg</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp ground cloves</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200g light brown sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g caster sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">4 large eggs, at room temperature</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">300ml vegetable oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Zest of 1 orange</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g walnuts, chopped (plus extra for decoration)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">75g sultanas (optional)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">3 x 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Box grater or food processor with grating attachment</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Stand mixer or electric hand mixer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Offset spatula</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4). Grease three 20cm round cake tins and line the bases with parchment paper. This triple layer approach will give your cake impressive height while ensuring each layer bakes evenly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Peel and finely grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. The fine texture ensures the carrots will cook properly and distribute evenly throughout the batter. Place grated carrots on paper towels and gently press to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy cake.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This pre-mixing of dry ingredients ensures even distribution of the raising agents and spices throughout the batter.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat both sugars and eggs on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale and slightly thickened. This creates a stable emulsion that helps trap air, creating a lighter texture in the final cake.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>With the mixer running on low, slowly stream in the oil, then add the vanilla extract and orange zest. The gradual addition prevents the mixture from splitting. It should look smooth and well-combined.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Fold in the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula, mixing just until no flour pockets remain. Over-mixing develops gluten, which can make your cake tough rather than tender.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Gently fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and sultanas (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The moisture from the carrots will help keep your cake beautifully moist for days.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Divide the batter equally between the three prepared tins (approximately 500g per tin if you want to be precise). Smooth the tops with an offset spatula and tap each tin gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the cakes spring back when lightly pressed. The cakes will be golden brown and just starting to pull away from the sides of the tin.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Placing them upside down on the rack helps flatten any domes that formed during baking, giving you more even layers.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4>For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened butter in a stand mixer or with an electric hand mixer until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The butter must be soft but not melted for the perfect frosting texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4>Add the cold cream cheese (straight from the refrigerator) in chunks, beating on medium speed until just combined. Using cold cream cheese helps maintain the frosting's structure. Be careful not to overbeat once the cream cheese is added, as this can make the frosting runny.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 13</h4>Add the sifted icing sugar in 2-3 batches, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then increase to medium speed. Add the vanilla extract and salt, beating until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting seems too soft, refrigerate for 20 minutes before using.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 14</h4>For the caramelized walnuts, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat without stirring until the sugar dissolves and begins to turn amber (approximately 5-6 minutes). Immediately add the walnuts, stir quickly to coat, then pour onto the prepared baking sheet, separating the nuts with two forks. Let cool completely before using.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 15</h4>To assemble the cake, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread approximately 1/4 of the frosting over the top in an even layer. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat. Add the final cake layer and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 16</h4>For a rustic finish, use an offset spatula to create textured swirls in the frosting. For a smoother finish, dip the spatula in hot water, wipe dry, and run it over the frosting. Decorate the top with the caramelized walnuts and a sprinkle of orange zest for a beautiful finish.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 17</h4>For the best flavor, allow the assembled cake to rest at room temperature for 1 hour before serving, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop and the frosting to soften slightly.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Carrot Layer Cake?

This carrot cake uses grated carrots, flour, raising agents, warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), sugars, eggs, vegetable oil, orange zest, walnuts, and sultanas. The cream cheese frosting requires cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, and vanilla extract.

How to cook Carrot Layer Cake at home?

Learn how to cook Carrot Layer Cake by preparing three 20cm tins and creating a spiced batter with grated carrots, walnuts and orange zest. Bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes until golden and springy. Once cooled, layer with tangy cream cheese frosting and decorate with caramelised walnuts for a professional finish.

Why is my cream cheese frosting for carrot cake too runny?

Runny cream cheese frosting is usually caused by overbeating after adding the cream cheese, using warm ingredients, or incorrect proportions. Use cold cream cheese, properly softened (not melted) butter, and mix gently. If it's still too soft, refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before frosting.

Can you freeze a frosted carrot cake with cream cheese icing?

Yes, frosted carrot cake freezes well for up to 2 months. Refrigerate first to set the frosting, then wrap securely in cling film and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving for the best texture and flavour.

What makes carrot cake so moist compared to other cakes?

Carrot cake's exceptional moisture comes from the high vegetable oil content and the natural moisture in freshly grated carrots. These ingredients create a cake that stays fresh for days. The addition of brown sugar also helps retain moisture while adding depth of flavour.

Want to try something else in ...

Layer Cakes

Try following recommended recipes

View all
Overhead shot of a three-layer cake with pale pink rosewater buttercream visible between each tier, topped with a crown of roughly chopped vibrant green pistachios and scattered dried rose petals. A cross-section reveals the delicate crumb of the sponge layers and the perfect distribution of buttercream. Soft natural light highlights the subtle pink hue of the frosting against the golden-brown cake layers and creates shadows that emphasize the texture of the crushed pistachios. The cake sits on an ornate silver cake stand against a cream linen background, with a small bowl of chopped pistachios and a tiny bottle of rosewater strategically placed beside it.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Rosewater Pistachio Layer Cake Recipe

Fragrant rosewater sponge layers are stacked with crushed pistachios and delicate rosewater buttercream, creating an elegant cake that balances floral notes with nutty richness.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a three-layer cake with cream cheese frosting swirled decoratively on top, with a slice being removed to reveal the stunning cinnamon swirl pattern between each layer. The cake sits on a white ceramic cake stand against a light wooden table, with soft natural light streaming in from a nearby window. Scattered around the base are cinnamon sticks, a small bowl of ground cinnamon, and a few fresh flowers for color contrast. The cross-section reveals moist vanilla cake layers married with rich brown cinnamon filling that spirals throughout, resembling the interior of a traditional cinnamon roll. The thick cream cheese frosting gleams with a slight sheen, dripping tantalizingly down the sides.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

A tender vanilla cake layered with swirls of brown sugar-cinnamon filling and crowned with cream cheese frosting captures all the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in celebratory form.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a three-layer banana caramel cake on a white ceramic cake stand against a neutral linen backdrop. Soft natural light highlights the glossy caramel drizzle cascading elegantly down the sides of the cream-colored frosting. A cross-section view reveals moist banana cake layers separated by rich caramel-infused cream cheese frosting. Scattered around the base are fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, and caramel shards for texture contrast. A vintage cake server rests nearby, poised to cut through the first slice, while a small jar of extra caramel sauce sits in the background, its amber tones echoing the warm golden highlights in the cake's decoration.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Banana Caramel Layer Cake Recipe

A decadent three-layer banana cake infused with warm spices, filled with smooth caramel cream cheese frosting, and crowned with a glossy homemade caramel drizzle that cascades down the sides.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An elegant three-layer cake photographed in soft natural light streaming through a window, showing a perfect cross-section that reveals moist golden-brown layers separated by delicate cream-colored frosting. The exterior features smoothly applied tahini buttercream with deliberate textured swirls and drips of golden honey cascading down the sides. The cake sits on a simple white ceramic cake stand against a neutral linen backdrop, with scattered sesame seeds and small jars of honey and tahini strategically placed nearby. Close-up details capture the fine crumb texture of the cake and the luxurious sheen of the honey drizzle, emphasizing the cake's perfect balance of rustic and refined elements.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Honey Tahini Layer Cake Recipe

A sophisticated layer cake combining the nutty richness of tahini with floral honey sweetness, finished with a silky tahini buttercream that balances sweet and savory notes in every luxurious bite.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
40 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
Overhead shot of a three-layer cake with velvety chai buttercream visible between each moist layer. A cross-section reveals the cake's tender crumb against creamy frosting. Styled on a white ceramic cake stand with scattered cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cardamom pods around the base. Soft natural light highlights the cake's golden-brown edges and the delicate swirls of buttercream on top, dusted with a fine sprinkle of cinnamon. Small chai tea leaves are scattered artistically on the wooden surface alongside cups of steaming chai tea, suggesting the perfect pairing.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Chai Spiced Layer Cake Recipe

A tender, warmly-spiced cake layered with aromatic chai-infused buttercream that balances complex spices with subtle sweetness for an elegant dessert experience.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
40 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An elegant three-layer cake photographed in soft afternoon light, showing a slice removed to reveal the delicate layers of golden sponge, white mascarpone frosting, and vibrant purple plum compote. The exterior features swirls of vanilla-flecked mascarpone and is adorned with fresh plum slices arranged in an overlapping pattern around the top edge. A light dusting of icing sugar creates a subtle contrast against the deep burgundy fruit, while the cake sits on a vintage milk glass cake stand against a neutral linen backdrop, with a silver cake server and scattered fresh plums completing the sophisticated arrangement.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Plum and Mascarpone Layer Cake Recipe

A tender, spiced sponge layered with creamy mascarpone frosting and sweet-tart plum compote creates a sophisticated yet comforting dessert perfect for special occasions.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An elegant three-layer chocolate cake photographed in soft window light against a matte black backdrop, creating dramatic contrast with the cake's deep brown exterior. A cross-section reveals moist, tender chocolate layers separated by smooth malted chocolate buttercream. The top features a glossy chocolate ganache dripping artfully down the sides, with crushed malted milk balls and chocolate curls creating visual texture. A slice being lifted away shows the perfect crumb structure while malted milk powder dusts the wooden cake stand below, hinting at the secret ingredient that gives this cake its distinctive flavor profile.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Malted Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Rich chocolate layers infused with malted milk powder create a nostalgic yet sophisticated cake with deep cocoa flavor, creamy frosting, and a delightful crunch from malted chocolate balls.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An elegant three-layer cake captured from a slight angle to showcase its dramatic black and white contrast. The exterior features smooth charcoal-colored black sesame buttercream with deliberate textural swoops created by an offset spatula. A cross-section view reveals pristine white cake layers separated by darker frosting. The cake sits atop a minimalist white cake stand against a neutral gray background, with scattered black sesame seeds and a small bowl of whole seeds nearby. Soft natural light casts gentle shadows, highlighting the cake's velvety frosting texture and moist interior crumb.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Black Sesame Layer Cake Recipe

A sophisticated layer cake featuring nutty black sesame buttercream between tender vanilla sponges, delivering complex flavors with a striking monochromatic appearance.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An elegant three-layer cake captured in soft natural light against a pale marble backdrop, showcasing a cross-section view that reveals vivid purple blackberry compote nestled between lime-flecked sponge layers. The exterior features smooth cream cheese frosting with a gentle ombré effect, transitioning from white to pale lavender, adorned with fresh blackberries, lime zest, and edible flowers. Condensation beads on plump berries create a striking contrast against the cake's matte finish, while a vintage cake stand elevates the composition, with scattered fresh blackberries and lime wheels creating a naturally styled border.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Blackberry Lime Layer Cake Recipe

A tender, zesty cake bursting with fresh blackberry compote between layers of lime-infused sponge, all wrapped in silky cream cheese frosting with subtle hints of citrus.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rustic three-layer cake with visible flecks of spice in the golden-brown sponge, captured in soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window. The cross-section reveals delicate apple layers nestled between moist cake tiers, while cream cheese frosting drips elegantly down the sides with appealing imperfection. Thinly sliced caramelized apples crown the top in a spiral pattern, their edges glowing amber. The cake sits on a weathered wooden cake stand, surrounded by scattered cinnamon sticks, star anise, and fresh apple slices, with a vintage cake server resting nearby, ready to cut into the first slice.
Cakes
Layer Cakes

Spiced Apple Layer Cake Recipe

A tender spiced cake layered with cinnamon-infused apples and velvety cream cheese frosting, delivering the quintessential taste of autumn in every moist, aromatic bite.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
45 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Carrot Layer Cake Recipe", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Baker" }, "datePublished": "2024-06-16", "description": "Learn how to make the best homemade carrot layer cake with this easy baking recipe. Perfectly moist layers packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with tangy cream cheese frosting. This foolproof recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time!", "prepTime": "PT45M", "cookTime": "PT35M", "totalTime": "PT1H20M", "keywords": "carrot cake, cream cheese frosting, spiced cake, walnut cake, layer cake", "recipeYield": "12", "recipeCategory": "Dessert", "recipeCuisine": "American", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "485 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "56 g", "proteinContent": "5 g", "fatContent": "28 g", "saturatedFatContent": "12 g", "cholesterolContent": "115 mg", "sodiumContent": "320 mg", "sugarContent": "42 g", "servingSize": "1 slice" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "350g carrots, finely grated", "300g plain flour", "1 tsp baking powder", "1 tsp bicarbonate of soda", "2 tsp ground cinnamon", "1/2 tsp ground nutmeg", "1/4 tsp ground cloves", "1/2 tsp salt", "200g light brown sugar", "100g caster sugar", "4 large eggs, at room temperature", "300ml vegetable oil", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "Zest of 1 orange", "100g walnuts, chopped (plus extra for decoration)", "75g sultanas (optional)", "400g full-fat cream cheese, chilled", "150g unsalted butter, softened", "400g icing sugar, sifted", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "Pinch of salt", "100g walnut halves", "75g granulated sugar", "1 tbsp water" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare oven and tins", "text": "Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4). Grease three 20cm round cake tins and line the bases with parchment paper. This triple layer approach will give your cake impressive height while ensuring each layer bakes evenly." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare carrots", "text": "Peel and finely grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. The fine texture ensures the carrots will cook properly and distribute evenly throughout the batter. Place grated carrots on paper towels and gently press to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy cake." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Mix dry ingredients", "text": "In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This pre-mixing of dry ingredients ensures even distribution of the raising agents and spices throughout the batter." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Beat sugar and eggs", "text": "In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat both sugars and eggs on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale and slightly thickened. This creates a stable emulsion that helps trap air, creating a lighter texture in the final cake." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add wet ingredients", "text": "With the mixer running on low, slowly stream in the oil, then add the vanilla extract and orange zest. The gradual addition prevents the mixture from splitting. It should look smooth and well-combined." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Combine dry and wet mixtures", "text": "Fold in the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula, mixing just until no flour pockets remain. Over-mixing develops gluten, which can make your cake tough rather than tender." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add carrots and nuts", "text": "Gently fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and sultanas (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The moisture from the carrots will help keep your cake beautifully moist for days." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Divide and prepare batter", "text": "Divide the batter equally between the three prepared tins (approximately 500g per tin if you want to be precise). Smooth the tops with an offset spatula and tap each tin gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Bake the cakes", "text": "Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the cakes spring back when lightly pressed. The cakes will be golden brown and just starting to pull away from the sides of the tin." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cool cakes", "text": "Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Placing them upside down on the rack helps flatten any domes that formed during baking, giving you more even layers." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare frosting base", "text": "For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened butter in a stand mixer or with an electric hand mixer until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The butter must be soft but not melted for the perfect frosting texture." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add cream cheese", "text": "Add the cold cream cheese (straight from the refrigerator) in chunks, beating on medium speed until just combined. Using cold cream cheese helps maintain the frosting's structure. Be careful not to overbeat once the cream cheese is added, as this can make the frosting runny." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Complete the frosting", "text": "Add the sifted icing sugar in 2-3 batches, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then increase to medium speed. Add the vanilla extract and salt, beating until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting seems too soft, refrigerate for 20 minutes before using." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Make caramelized walnuts", "text": "For the caramelized walnuts, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat without stirring until the sugar dissolves and begins to turn amber (approximately 5-6 minutes). Immediately add the walnuts, stir quickly to coat, then pour onto the prepared baking sheet, separating the nuts with two forks. Let cool completely before using." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Assemble cake base", "text": "To assemble the cake, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread approximately 1/4 of the frosting over the top in an even layer. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat. Add the final cake layer and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Finish and decorate", "text": "For a rustic finish, use an offset spatula to create textured swirls in the frosting. For a smoother finish, dip the spatula in hot water, wipe dry, and run it over the frosting. Decorate the top with the caramelized walnuts and a sprinkle of orange zest for a beautiful finish." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Rest and serve", "text": "For the best flavor, allow the assembled cake to rest at room temperature for 1 hour before serving, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop and the frosting to soften slightly." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "173" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Priya Sharma", "datePublished": "2024-06-02", "reviewBody": "This carrot cake is absolutely divine! The perfect balance of spices and moisture makes it stand out from other recipes I've tried. The cream cheese frosting is so tangy and delicious - not too sweet.", "name": "Perfect Balance of Flavors", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Lars Johansson", "datePublished": "2024-06-05", "reviewBody": "I've made many carrot cakes before but this recipe is exceptional. The cake stayed moist for days and the caramelized walnuts added the perfect crunch. My family couldn't stop raving about it!", "name": "Best Carrot Cake Ever", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Maria Rodriguez", "datePublished": "2024-06-10", "reviewBody": "The instructions were clear and detailed which made this intermediate-level cake achievable even for someone like me who doesn't bake often. The layers were perfect and everyone at the office party asked for the recipe!", "name": "Crowd-Pleaser", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Takashi Yamamoto", "datePublished": "2024-06-12", "reviewBody": "Worth the extra effort of grating fresh carrots! The texture was incredible and the orange zest in both the cake and as decoration added a wonderful brightness that complemented the warm spices perfectly.", "name": "Worth Every Minute", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Elena Petrova", "datePublished": "2024-06-15", "reviewBody": "The cream cheese frosting is absolutely divine! It holds its shape well while still being creamy. The detailed instructions for preventing a runny frosting were so helpful. This will be my go-to carrot cake recipe from now on!", "name": "Frosting Perfection", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Carrot Layer Cake?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "This carrot cake uses grated carrots, flour, raising agents, warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), sugars, eggs, vegetable oil, orange zest, walnuts, and sultanas. The cream cheese frosting requires cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, and vanilla extract." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to cook Carrot Layer Cake at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to cook Carrot Layer Cake by preparing three 20cm tins and creating a spiced batter with grated carrots, walnuts and orange zest. Bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes until golden and springy. Once cooled, layer with tangy cream cheese frosting and decorate with caramelised walnuts for a professional finish." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Why is my cream cheese frosting for carrot cake too runny?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Runny cream cheese frosting is usually caused by overbeating after adding the cream cheese, using warm ingredients, or incorrect proportions. Use cold cream cheese, properly softened (not melted) butter, and mix gently. If it's still too soft, refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before frosting." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you freeze a frosted carrot cake with cream cheese icing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, frosted carrot cake freezes well for up to 2 months. Refrigerate first to set the frosting, then wrap securely in cling film and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving for the best texture and flavour." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What makes carrot cake so moist compared to other cakes?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Carrot cake's exceptional moisture comes from the high vegetable oil content and the natural moisture in freshly grated carrots. These ingredients create a cake that stays fresh for days. The addition of brown sugar also helps retain moisture while adding depth of flavour." } } ] }