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Pecan Carrot Cake Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • Cream cheese frosting

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Stir in the grated carrots, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut (if using).
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Once the cake is completely cool, frost with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans, if desired.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowls - You'll need mixing bowls to combine the dry and wet ingredients.
  • Whisk - A whisk will be used to mix the dry ingredients together evenly.
  • Electric mixer - An electric mixer will help you cream the sugars and oil together efficiently.
  • Grater - You'll need a grater to grate the carrots for the cake.
  • Baking pan - A 9x13-inch baking pan is required to bake the cake.
  • Cooling rack - A cooling rack will help the cake cool evenly once it's out of the oven.
  • Offset spatula - An offset spatula will come in handy for frosting the cake smoothly.

Recipe overview

This Pecan Carrot Cake recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of carrots and pecans to create a delightful and moist cake. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. Follow the simple steps below to bake your own Pecan Carrot Cake and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness.

TimeApprox. 45 min
ServingsThis recipe yields approximately 12-15 servings.
CaloriesApprox. 380
Print recipe

Common questions

  1. Can I add raisins to this carrot cake? Yes, you can add 1/2 to 1 cup of raisins to the batter if desired.
  2. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to frost and serve.
  3. How should I store leftover carrot cake? Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  4. Can I freeze this carrot cake? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowls - Various sizes for mixing dry and wet ingredients.
  • Whisk - To combine the ingredients smoothly.
  • Grater - For grating the carrots.
  • Baking pan - 9x13-inch for baking the cake.
  • Wire rack - For cooling the cake after baking.
  • Spatula - For spreading the batter in the pan and frosting the cake.

Origin stories

Carrot cake is believed to have originated from Europe during the Middle Ages when sweeteners were scarce and expensive, leading to the use of sweet vegetables in desserts. The addition of carrots to cakes became popular during World War II when sugar was rationed, making carrots a practical and natural sweetener for baked goods.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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