Best Carrot Cake Recipe

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Grease and flour 2 round cake pans thoroughly.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, brown sugar, sugar, and vanilla.  Using a spoon, stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients in three intervals; just until incorporated.  Stir in the carrots and 3/4 cup chopped pecans just until mixed. Divide evenly between pans.  Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 3

Cool pans on cooling racks for 30 minutes prior to inverting.  Cool completely before frosting.

Step 4

In a stand mixer on medium, using the paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth, creamy, and lump-free.  Add salt and vanilla extract while continuing to beat, scraping down the beater and sides of the bowl.  Add powdered sugar 1 cup at a time while beating; scraping down the beater, and bowl a couple more times.

Step 5

Place one of the cooled baked cake layers on a cake stand.  Use a little short of 3/4 cup of frosting on the bottom layer and spread evenly. Now add the second layer and spread about 1 cup on the top. Use about 1 cup on the sides and reserve the rest for piping the edge if desired.

Step 6

Use your hands to gently press the remaining chopped pecans (1 cup) onto the sides of the cake.  Scoop up any pieces that fall along the way and press again.  If desired, pipe top or bottom edge. Refrigerate until ready to serve.