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# The BEST Carrot Cake Ever – Moist, Spiced & Drizzled in Brown Butter Frosting

## Introduction

Carrot cake is a timeless classic beloved by many. This moist, spiced dessert combines the natural sweetness of grated carrots with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a flavorful cake that’s perfect year-round. What sets this recipe apart is the luscious brown butter frosting that drizzles over the top, adding a rich, nutty depth that elevates the cake from ordinary to extraordinary.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying carrot cake for the first time, this recipe promises a moist crumb, perfect spice balance, and an irresistible frosting. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best carrot cake ever!

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## A Brief History of Carrot Cake

Carrot cake’s origins trace back to medieval Europe, where sugar and sweeteners were scarce. People used carrots, naturally sweet, as a substitute in cakes and puddings. The tradition evolved over centuries, and carrot cake became particularly popular in the 20th century, especially in the United States and the UK.

What started as a practical way to sweeten desserts has grown into a favorite cake with many variations, from classic cream cheese frosting to more inventive toppings like brown butter glaze. This cake embodies comfort and warmth, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings.

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## Why This Recipe Is the BEST

* **Moisture:** The secret lies in the combination of fresh grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and oil, which keep the cake soft and tender.
* **Spice Blend:** A perfectly balanced mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves gives the cake a warm and inviting flavor without overpowering.
* **Texture:** The addition of chopped walnuts adds a delightful crunch.
* **Brown Butter Frosting:** Instead of traditional cream cheese frosting, this recipe uses brown butter, adding a deep, nutty flavor and silky texture.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite its gourmet appeal, this cake is straightforward, with simple ingredients and clear steps.

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## Ingredients

### For the Cake:

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 tsp baking powder
* 1 ½ tsp baking soda
* 1 tsp salt
* 2 tsp ground cinnamon
* ½ tsp ground nutmeg
* ¼ tsp ground cloves
* ¼ tsp ground ginger
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup brown sugar, packed
* 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (or canola oil)
* 4 large eggs
* 2 tsp vanilla extract
* 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
* 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
* 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

### For the Brown Butter Frosting:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 4 oz cream cheese, softened
* 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for consistency)

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## Equipment Needed

* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer or stand mixer
* Grater for carrots
* Measuring cups and spoons
* 9×13 inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans
* Saucepan for browning butter
* Spatula
* Cooling racks

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## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pan(s).
2. **Mix dry ingredients:** In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger). Set aside.
3. **Mix sugars and oil:** In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until fully combined.
4. **Add eggs and vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine wet and dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
6. **Add carrots, pineapple, and nuts:** Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts gently.

### Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
2. Bake for 40-50 minutes (9×13 pan) or 30-35 minutes (round pans), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

### Step 3: Make the Brown Butter Frosting

1. **Brown the butter:** In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan frequently, until the butter foams, then browns with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
2. **Cool the butter:** Pour the brown butter into a bowl and let it cool slightly.
3. **Beat cream cheese:** In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
4. **Combine:** Gradually add the brown butter to the cream cheese, mixing until smooth.
5. **Add powdered sugar:** Slowly add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition, until you reach your desired sweetness and thickness.
6. **Add vanilla, salt, and cream:** Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream a tablespoon at a time to reach spreading consistency.

### Step 4: Assemble and Drizzle

1. If you baked round cakes, frost between the layers.
2. Spread or drizzle the brown butter frosting generously over the top of the cake.
3. Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

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