Easy Mrs. Brown's Carrot Cake Recipe (Martha Stewart Inspired)
Carrot cake represents a comforting and familiar dessert enjoyed across various cultures, often associated with warmth and autumnal celebrations. Its appeal lies in the moistness imparted by the carrots, the subtle spice notes, and the rich cream cheese frosting that typically adorns it. Variations abound, reflecting regional preferences and individual creativity in the kitchen.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan – for even baking and portion control.
- Large and medium mixing bowls – for separating and combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk – to incorporate air and blend ingredients smoothly.
- Electric mixer (stand or handheld) – for creaming, mixing, or whipping ingredients efficiently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate proportions of all ingredients.
- Grater – useful for incorporating fresh ingredients like citrus zest or grated vegetables.
- Rubber spatula – ideal for scraping down bowls and spreading batters evenly.
- Wire rack – allows baked goods to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.
- Parchment paper (optional) – for lining the baking pan to ease cake removal and cleanup.
- Oven thermometer (recommended) – helps ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for consistent results.
Ingredients
- For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
- 1/2 cup raisins optional
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Cake Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the grated carrots, nuts (if using), and raisins (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frosting Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top with the cream cheese frosting.
- Cut, serve, and enjoy.
- Tips and Substitutions:
- For a richer flavor, substitute brown sugar for half of the granulated sugar.
- Pineapple chunks can be added for increased moisture
- Toasted coconut flakes can be used to add a subtle and sweet flavor.
- For a dairy-free frosting, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and vegan butter substitute.
Notes
Variations
Adaptations to the base recipe allow for exploration of different flavor profiles and cater to specific dietary needs. These variations maintain the essence of the recipe while offering unique twists:- Ingredient Swaps: Substituting applesauce for a portion of the oil can reduce fat content. Replacing walnuts or pecans with macadamia nuts introduces a richer flavor. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour adds a nuttier taste and increases fiber content.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating cardamom and saffron, used in Middle Eastern desserts, adds an exotic spice note. A citrus glaze, common in Mediterranean baking, can replace the cream cheese frosting for a lighter option. Adding crushed pineapple, common in certain American Southern variations, increases moisture and sweetness.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, a blend of gluten-free flours can be used. For a vegan version, eggs can be replaced with flax eggs or applesauce, and a plant-based cream cheese alternative can be used for the frosting. Sugar substitutes, such as stevia or monk fruit, can be used to reduce sugar content.