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Cheesecake Factory Carrot Cake

A beloved classic, this Cheesecake Factory-inspired carrot cake is a delightful treat featuring spiced cake layers and rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light or dark brown sugar (firmly packed)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup canola or vegetable oil
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots (peeled before grating)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened) for frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese (brick-style, not spreadable, softened)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
  • ¼ teaspoon salt for frosting
  • 4 cups powdered sugar for frosting

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8-inch baking pans with parchment paper and gently grease and flour the sides.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg and whisk together.
  3. Stir in the canola oil and melted butter, mixing thoroughly until smooth.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Mix in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the grated carrots and optional nuts until evenly distributed.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
  8. For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
  9. Add the vanilla extract and salt, then gradually mix in powdered sugar until fluffy.
  10. Once the cakes are cool, frost between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake, cheesecake factory, dessert, birthday cake, baking