Spiced Carrot Cake

For the Carrot Cake:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 3 cups grated carrots (about 5 medium carrots)
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Equipment Needed:

• Four 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Grater
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Cake Layers:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the four cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and oil until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and raisins (if using) until evenly distributed.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the four prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Assembly:

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a cake stand or plate.

2. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.

3. Add the next layer of cake and repeat the frosting process until all four layers are stacked.

4. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. For a smooth finish, use an offset spatula or a knife.

5. If desired, garnish with additional nuts, and make sure to sprinkle on our Egg Hunt sprinkles for your finishing touch!

6. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set the frosting before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your spiced carrot cake!