Carrot Cake Sheet Cake (Printer-Friendly Version)
Ultra-moist, fluffy carrot cake with nuts and spiced flavors, topped with creamy frosting for any celebration.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Cake Base
01 -
2 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
2 teaspoons baking powder
03 -
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
04 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
05 -
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
06 -
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
→ Sweeteners and Fats
07 -
1 cup granulated sugar
08 -
1 cup packed brown sugar
09 -
1 cup vegetable oil
→ Eggs and Flavoring
10 -
4 large eggs
11 -
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
→ Mix-Ins
12 -
2 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
13 -
1/2 cup drained crushed pineapple
14 -
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
15 -
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
→ Cream Cheese Frosting
16 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
17 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
18 -
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
19 -
3 to 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
20 -
Pinch of salt
→ Optional Garnishes
21 -
Chopped nuts
22 -
Toasted coconut
23 -
Extra grated carrot for garnish
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy release.
02 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until fully blended.
03 -
In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until mixture is smooth and cohesive.
04 -
Stir in finely grated carrots and drained crushed pineapple. Fold in chopped nuts and raisins if using.
05 -
Gradually add dry ingredient mixture to wet mixture. Gently stir with a spatula until just combined to ensure a tender cake; do not overmix.
06 -
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth surface. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
07 -
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Incorporate powdered sugar gradually, mixing until frosting is smooth and spreadable.
08 -
Spread cream cheese frosting evenly over completely cooled cake. Garnish with chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or additional grated carrot as desired.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Finely grate carrots for even distribution and maximum moisture in the cake.
02 -
Ensure pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent excess liquid in the batter.
03 -
Allow cake to cool fully before frosting to maintain frosting stability.
04 -
Customize with your preferred mix-ins, such as coconut or golden raisins.