Sam’s Famous Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Sam’s Famous Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Moist, tender layers of spiced carrot cake are studded with grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla, then topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake strikes the ideal balance between cozy flavor and decadent sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Moist: Freshly grated carrots add natural sweetness and texture.
Classic Flavors: Warm spices and creamy frosting make this a timeless favorite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at family gatherings, potlucks, or celebrations.
Bakery-Worthy: Easy enough to make at home, yet elegant enough for a special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or light olive oil)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups finely grated carrots
• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional, for extra moisture)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz light cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Prepare Wet Mixture
In a large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.

4. Combine & Fold
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in grated carrots, and if using, pineapple and nuts.

5. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.

6. Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.

7. Assemble the Cake
Spread frosting evenly between cake layers, then frost the top and sides. Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 360
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Freshly Grated Carrots: Pre-shredded carrots are too dry—grating fresh makes a big difference.
• Optional Add-Ins: Pineapple adds moisture, while nuts add crunch—both elevate the texture.
• Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerating the cake for 30 minutes helps with clean, neat slices.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the creamiest frosting, make sure cream cheese and butter are softened.

Why This Recipe Works

This carrot cake delivers on everything you want in a dessert—moist layers, warm spices, and tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting. The balance of flavors and textures creates a cake that feels indulgent but still light enough to enjoy any time of year.

Sam’s Famous Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert to bring joy to any occasion. With tender, spiced layers and creamy frosting, it’s a recipe that’s as reliable as it is irresistible. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or a simple family gathering, this cake is sure to be remembered and requested again and again.