This Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is the perfect balance of moist, spiced carrot cake and a sweet, creamy filling that brings a delightful texture contrast. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a comforting dessert, this cake is sure to impress. With optional frosting and garnishes, it’s the ultimate indulgence for any carrot cake lover!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This carrot cake stands out thanks to its moist texture and the cream cheese filling that sits perfectly in the middle, adding a rich and creamy surprise in each bite. The spiced carrot cake is made even more delicious with optional ingredients like crushed pineapple, nuts, and raisins. Top it off with a cream cheese frosting for a truly decadent treat that will be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients for Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
For the Carrot Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 3: Make the Carrot Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple (if using), walnuts or pecans (if using), and raisins (if using).
Step 4: Layer the Cake Batter and Cream Cheese Filling
- Pour half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared cake pans or 9×13 pan.
- Gently spread the cream cheese filling over the batter, avoiding spreading it too close to the edges.
- Pour the remaining carrot cake batter over the cream cheese filling, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes (or 30-35 minutes for the 9×13 pan) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
- If using round cake pans, layer the cakes with frosting between the layers and on top. For the 9×13 cake, simply spread the frosting over the top.
- Optionally, garnish with chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve it as a dessert: This cake makes an amazing dessert for family gatherings, birthdays, or any special occasion.
- Pair with a hot beverage: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk for the ultimate treat.
- Top with extra goodies: Add extra nuts, a drizzle of caramel, or even a few chocolate shavings for a gourmet touch.
Helpful Tips
- Shred the carrots finely to ensure they blend well into the batter and give the cake its signature moistness.
- If you don’t have two round cake pans, you can use a 9×13-inch pan and serve the cake in squares.
- The cream cheese filling is optional, but it adds a delicious surprise in the center of the cake and makes it extra special.
- If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, consider using dairy-free cream cheese for both the filling and frosting.
Time to Make
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Conclusion
This Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture, spiced flavor, and creamy filling make it a true showstopper. Top it off with a rich cream cheese frosting for the ultimate indulgence, and enjoy a slice of this delicious homemade cake that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!