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Joanna Gaines' Perfect Carrot Cake

Joanna Gaines' Perfect Carrot Cake

Joanna Gaines' Perfect Carrot Cake defines rustic elegance through its dense crumb and rich cream cheese frosting. This legendary dessert balances sweetness with warm spices and fresh carrots for a flawless finish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamo
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
  2. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Beat vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined; add eggs one at a time.
  4. Mix in vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until no flour streaks remain.
  6. Fold in grated carrots and nuts using a rubber spatula.
  7. Divide batter between pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, testing for doneness.
  8. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  9. Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy; add sifted powdered sugar and vanilla and mix until stiff.
  10. Assemble by frosting between layers and the top and sides.

Notes

Always grate your own carrots fresh; ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing for best results.