Indulgent Carrot Cake with Caramel Pecan Drizzle
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
For the Caramel Pecan Topping:
1/2 cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Directions:
Make the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
Add the Caramel Pecan Topping: - Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for a finishing touch.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 12