Carrot Cake Recipe

If you’ve been searching for that perfect little indulgence to brighten an afternoon or delight your guests, this Single Layer Carrot Cake is exactly what you need. It’s charmingly simple, packed with warm cinnamon spices, tender grated carrots, and a luscious browned butter cinnamon cream cheese frosting that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re baking for one or a few, this modestly sized but flavor-packed cake proves that you don’t need multiple layers to create something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Single Layer Carrot Cake plays a starring role, combining to create moist texture, inviting aroma, and that classic, comforting carrot cake flavor. You’ll find the list refreshingly straightforward with just the right balance of baking essentials and flavorful additions.

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cake that gives it structure without weighing it down.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly for a light and tender crumb.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic notes that pair beautifully with carrots.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a subtle richness.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides just the right sweetness to complement the spices.
• Large Egg: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture and richness.
• Finely Grated Carrots: The star ingredient bringing natural sweetness, texture, and vibrant color.
• Chopped Walnuts (Optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor either mixed into the batter or as a garnish.
• Unsalted Butter (for frosting): Browned for an irresistible nutty depth.
• Cream Cheese: Gives the frosting its luscious creamy texture with a mild tang.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the rich flavors in the frosting.
• Ground Cinnamon (for frosting): Brings the spice theme full circle in the frosting.
• Sifted Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.

How to Make Single Layer Carrot Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan

Begin by setting your oven rack to the second level and preheating to 350ºF. Grease your 6-inch cake pan generously, and for extra assurance against sticking, consider lining the bottom with parchment paper. This small cake pan size means you’ll get a tender, compact cake that’s just right for cozy gatherings or special treats.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agents and spices are distributed evenly, so every bite has consistent flavor and rises just right.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, blend the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and egg until smooth and homogenous. This creates the liquid base that makes the batter silky and moist without any fuss.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; you want a tender crumb that isn’t tough, so a gentle hand is key.

Step 5: Fold in Carrots and Nuts

Gently fold in the finely grated carrots and optional chopped walnuts. The carrots keep the cake wonderfully moist and add a subtle sweetness, while nuts add texture and an extra flavor dimension if you choose them.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Browned Butter Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it browns and releases a nutty aroma—that magic browned butter smell that elevates every bite. Let the butter cool until solid but still spreadable. Then beat it with softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Slowly add sifted powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is fluffy and perfectly spreadable.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once your Single Layer Carrot Cake is completely cool, slather on that dreamy browned butter cinnamon cream cheese frosting. A sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top makes it look extra inviting and adds crunch.

How to Serve Single Layer Carrot Cake

Garnishes

Besides the classic chopped walnuts topping, you can add a dusting of cinnamon or a few toasted coconut flakes for a little something special. Edible flowers or a light drizzle of honey also bring a touch of elegance and sweetness if you want to impress your guests.

Side Dishes

Carrot cake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a warm spiced chai tea, both balancing the rich sweetness. For a brunch setting, serve it alongside fresh fruit salad to lighten the plate and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this Single Layer Carrot Cake as is for a cozy treat, or cut into petite squares for bite-sized desserts at a party. Layer it with whipped cream and chopped nuts in a trifle dish for a stunning alternative presentation that highlights every delicious component.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your frosted Single Layer Carrot Cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying over a few sittings without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, unfrosted cake layers freeze beautifully—wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and frost fresh for best results. The frosting itself can be frozen separately as well.

Reheating

This cake is best served at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid heating the frosting too much to keep its creamy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I make this carrot cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and check your baking soda and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly but the flavor will remain delightful.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can swap vegetable oil for melted coconut oil or even applesauce in a pinch. Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor twist, while applesauce is a great fat-replacer for a lighter cake, though it may affect moisture levels slightly.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger cake?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on it and test with a toothpick to avoid over or underbaking.

Is the browned butter frosting necessary?

The browned butter frosting adds a rich, nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the spices and carrots. However, you can use classic cream cheese frosting if you prefer a simpler, tangier flavor—just omit the browning step and cinnamon in the frosting.

Can I add raisins or pineapple to the batter?

Definitely! Adding raisins or crushed pineapple is a popular way to boost moisture and add bursts of sweetness and texture. Just fold them in with the carrots and nuts before baking for a personalized twist.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for one, two, or a small gathering, this Single Layer Carrot Cake hits all the right notes with its moist crumb, cozy spices, and addictive browned butter cinnamon cream cheese frosting. It’s a humble cake that tastes anything but simple, making it a wonderful recipe to keep in your repertoire for whenever you want to spread a little joy—one delicious slice at a time.

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