Lucy M. This American Spiced Carrot Sheet Cake is moist, rich, and full of warm spices — perfect for any occasion!
American Spiced Carrot Sheet Cake brings together the earthy sweetness of carrots with cozy spices like cinnamon and ginger. The creamy frosting and crunchy nuts make every bite irresistible. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or just when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 2½ cups (275g) all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups (350g) sugar
- 4 extra-large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1¼ cups (300ml) sunflower oil
- 2½ cups (275g) carrots, grated
- 3 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- ⅔ cup (75g) mixed unsalted nuts, chopped
Topping:
- 1¾ cups (400g) full-fat cream cheese
- 4 tsp clear honey
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- Mixed unsalted nuts, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a large sheet pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Prepare the wet mix – In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients – Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Add the carrots and nuts – Stir in the grated carrots and chopped nuts. The batter will be thick, but that’s what gives the cake its rich texture.
- Pour and bake – Spread the batter evenly into the sheet pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Make the topping – Beat the cream cheese, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Frost the cake – Once the cake is cool, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the top. Sprinkle with chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chill and serve – Let the cake chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
American Spiced Carrot Sheet Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a large sheet pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Prepare the wet mix – In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients – Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Add the carrots and nuts – Stir in the grated carrots and chopped nuts. The batter will be thick, but that’s what gives the cake its rich texture.
- Pour and bake – Spread the batter evenly into the sheet pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Make the topping – Beat the cream cheese, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Frost the cake – Once the cake is cool, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the top. Sprinkle with chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chill and serve – Let the cake chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
Boost the Flavor with These Tasty Add-Ins
You can add shredded coconut, raisins, or chopped pineapple for extra sweetness and texture. A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans will add a nice crunch. For a spicier kick, try a pinch of nutmeg or cloves. A dash of orange zest can also brighten up the flavors and balance the sweetness beautifully.Pro Tip: Keep It Fresh
You can store the iced American Spiced Carrot Sheet Cake in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for the best taste.For a lighter yet equally satisfying dessert, check out this Swiss Strawberry and Walnut Cake. The strawberries and walnuts make a delightful combination.
Boost the Flavor with These Tasty Add-Ins
You can add shredded coconut, raisins, or chopped pineapple for extra sweetness and texture. A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans will add a nice crunch. For a spicier kick, try a pinch of nutmeg or cloves. A dash of orange zest can also brighten up the flavors and balance the sweetness beautifully.
Pro Tip: Keep It Fresh
You can store the iced American Spiced Carrot Sheet Cake in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for the best taste.
Nutritional Value
Per Serving:
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
American Spiced Carrot Sheet Cake is one of those desserts that never fails to impress. The blend of spices, sweet carrots, and creamy topping creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Whether you’re baking for a party or just craving something sweet, this cake hits the spot every time!
