Classic Carrot Cake (Pastel de Zanahoria) – Moist & Homemade

This Classic Carrot Cake (Pastel de Zanahoria) is soft, moist, and perfectly spiced, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Made with freshly grated carrots and warm spices, this timeless dessert is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

If you’re looking for a moist homemade carrot cake recipe, this easy version delivers bakery-quality flavor with simple ingredients.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Recipe

• 🥕 Incredibly moist and tender texture

• 🍰 Perfect balance of sweetness and spice

• 🧁 Rich and creamy frosting

• 🎉 Ideal for celebrations and gatherings

• 🥄 Easy step-by-step preparation

This classic carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is always a crowd-pleaser.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• A pinch of salt

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil

• 2 cups (200 g) freshly grated carrots

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup (115 g) butter, softened

• 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Moist Carrot Cake

1️⃣ Prepare the Oven & Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a cake pan with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3️⃣ Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar until well blended. Add vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Stir in grated carrots.

4️⃣ Combine & Bake

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

5️⃣ Prepare the Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy.

6️⃣ Frost & Serve

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This homemade carrot cake is perfect:

✔ As a birthday cake
✔ For Easter or holiday celebrations
✔ With a cup of coffee or tea
✔ Served chilled for firmer frosting

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💡 Tips for the Best Carrot Cake

• Use freshly grated carrots for better moisture and texture.

• Do not overmix the batter.

• Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.

• Add crushed pineapple for extra moisture (optional variation).