How to Make an Italian Carrot Cake with a Cream Cheese Frosting
Italian Carrot Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, infusing traditional flavors with a touch of Mediterranean flair. This cake is moist, rich, and perfectly complemented by a silky cream cheese frosting. Follow this simple recipe to create a luscious Italian Carrot Cake that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
To make an Italian Carrot Cake with a cream cheese frosting, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 5-6 medium carrots)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
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.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts if using. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Step 6: Decorate and Serve
For an extra touch, decorate the top of the cake with chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Slice and serve your Italian Carrot Cake to friends and family, and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Tips for the Perfect Italian Carrot Cake
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese frosting.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Enjoy this delicious Italian Carrot Cake as a sweet treat at any gathering or celebration!