The kitchen is filled with the warm aroma of spices, and suddenly, I find myself a kid again, eagerly waiting for a slice of my grandmother’s carrot cake. Today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe: Carrot Cake Tray Bake. This cozy dessert brings together the sweetness of grated carrots, cinnamon, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Not only is this cake easy to whip up in just about 30 minutes, but it also promises to be a crowd-pleaser, making it a perfect addition to your family gatherings or potlucks. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies without anyone realizing it! Are you ready to bake the nostalgia and flavor into your day? Let’s dive into this lovely recipe!
Why is This Cake a Must-Bake?
Irresistible flavor: The perfect blend of sweet carrots, aromatic cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a flavor profile that delights every palate.
Effortless preparation: This recipe is simple and straightforward, requiring just basic baking skills and minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on what matters—enjoying delicious desserts!
Versatile and festive: Whether for a cozy family dinner or a lively potluck, this tray bake is a sure hit, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Healthy indulgence: With wholesome ingredients like carrots and applesauce, this treat sneaks in nutrition while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Customizable presentation: Top it off with optional additions like walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it your own! Enjoy every slice knowing you’ve made a comforting classic from scratch.
Carrot Cake Tray Bake Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create the delightful Carrot Cake Tray Bake you’ll love!
For the Cake
• Grated carrots – 1 ½ cups, about 3 medium carrots; they add moisture and sweetness to the cake.
• All-purpose flour – 1 cup; you can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
• Baking powder – 1 tsp; ensures your cake rises beautifully.
• Baking soda – ½ tsp; works with the acidity in the carrots to help leaven the cake.
• Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp; provides a warm, comforting spice flavor.
• Ground nutmeg – ½ tsp; adds a subtle depth that pairs perfectly with the carrots.
• Salt – ¼ tsp; enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Large eggs – 2; they bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s texture.
• Light brown sugar – ½ cup; adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• Granulated sugar – ¼ cup; balances the sweetness and helps to create a moist cake.
• Unsweetened applesauce – ¼ cup; replaces oil for moisture and lowers fat content.
• Light olive oil – ¼ cup; or use any neutral oil for a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp; infuses a lovely warm flavor into the cake.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Reduced-fat cream cheese – 4 oz, softened; provides that classic tangy flavor while keeping it lighter.
• Light butter – 2 tbsp, softened; helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp; enhances the sweetness of the frosting.
• Powdered sugar – 1 cup, sifted; ensures a velvety finish to your frosting.
Optional Garnish
• Extra grated carrot – for a pop of color and decoration on top.
• Chopped walnuts – a lovely crunch that complements the soft cake texture.
• Sprinkle of cinnamon – adds an extra touch of warmth and inviting aroma.
Get ready to create a Carrot Cake Tray Bake that will become a cherished recipe in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carrot Cake Tray Bake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating, prepare an 8x8-inch tray by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your scrumptious Carrot Cake Tray Bake won't stick and will come out beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon salt. This dry mixture creates the perfect base for the warm flavors of your carrot cake, so mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, crack in 2 large eggs and beat them together with ½ cup light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce, ¼ cup light olive oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy before gently folding in 1 ½ cups of grated carrots for added sweetness and moisture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture from Step 2 into the wet mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This step ensures your Carrot Cake Tray Bake has a light and tender crumb, ready to rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when your cake is perfectly baked.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is essential to ensure that when you frost the cake, the creamy frosting won’t melt away, but instead sits beautifully on top of your moist Carrot Cake Tray Bake.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, you can make the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of softened reduced-fat cream cheese, 2 tablespoons softened light butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup sifted powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. This delightful frosting will add that signature tangy sweetness to your dessert.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top of your Carrot Cake Tray Bake using a spatula. Take your time with this step to ensure each slice will be beautifully frosted. If you like, garnish with extra grated carrots, chopped walnuts, or a light dusting of cinnamon to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Now that your Carrot Cake Tray Bake is fully frosted and garnished, slice it into squares for serving. This cake is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, allowing everyone to enjoy a piece of this nourishing and comforting treat made from scratch.
How to Store and Freeze Carrot Cake Tray Bake
Fridge: Keep leftover Carrot Cake Tray Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Carrot Cake Tray Bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Frosting Storage: If you have leftover cream cheese frosting, store it separately in the fridge for up to 1 week. Be sure to stir before using.
Tips for the Best Carrot Cake Tray Bake
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated carrots provide the best flavor and moisture. Avoid pre-packaged grated carrots, which can be drier.
• Don’t Overmix: Combining your wet and dry ingredients until just combined is crucial. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, airy Carrot Cake Tray Bake.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting. This helps achieve a beautiful finish.
• Customize Your Frosting: Feel free to add a pinch of zest or spices to your cream cheese frosting to elevate the flavors further and make it uniquely yours.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the cake around the 25-minute mark. It should come out clean to ensure it's perfectly baked.
What to Serve with Carrot Cake Tray Bake
Indulge your taste buds and elevate your homemade dessert with complementary dishes that enhance every slice of this delicious cake.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of buttery mashed potatoes adds a comforting contrast to the spiced sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful balance on your plate.
-
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with crunchy greens and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the Carrot Cake Tray Bake, cleansing the palate between bites.
-
Roasted Veggies: Serve a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli for a pop of color and earthy flavors that complement the cake’s sweetness.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm slices of cake combines textures and flavors for a heavenly dessert experience that satisfies every sweet tooth.
-
Iced Chai Latte: Enjoy the warm spices of an iced chai latte, which will echo the cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake while providing a refreshing drink to balance the sweetness.
-
Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of lightly spiced nuts adds crunch and warmth, making for a lovely nibble that enhances the flavors of the Carrot Cake Tray Bake.
-
Dark Chocolate Squares: For a sophisticated touch, pair with rich dark chocolate squares that contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cake and offer a delightful endnote to your meal.
Each of these pairings adds a unique flair to your dessert experience, making your Carrot Cake Tray Bake an unforgettable highlight at any gathering.
Make Ahead Options
These Carrot Cake Tray Bake slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and refrigerating them (this keeps the flavors vibrant). The grated carrots can also be prepped ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness. When you're ready to bake, simply combine the prepped ingredients and pour the batter into the tray for an easy transition to the oven. This way, you can enjoy delicious, homemade cake with minimal effort during busy weeknights, knowing it will taste just as delightful!
Carrot Cake Tray Bake Variations
Feel like getting creative with your Carrot Cake Tray Bake? Here are some delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe truly your own!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix to make this cake accessible for everyone.
-
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts from the garnish, or replace them with a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch.
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra layer of warm spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile beautifully.
-
Vegan Friendly: Swap the eggs for a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use vegan cream cheese for the frosting.
-
Fruit Fusion: Mix in ½ cup of crushed pineapple for added moisture and a tropical twist that complements the carrot flavor perfectly.
-
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter and drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the finished cake for an indulgent touch.
-
Heat It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground chili for a surprise kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
-
Citrus Zest: Grate some orange or lemon zest into the batter to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing citrus note to each bite.
Carrot Cake Tray Bake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best carrots for my Carrot Cake Tray Bake?
Absolutely! When selecting carrots, look for firm, smooth ones without dark spots or signs of softening. Fresh, vibrant carrots are sweeter and provide the best moisture for your cake. Aim for medium-sized carrots since they tend to have the perfect sweetness for baking.
How should I store my leftover Carrot Cake Tray Bake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Can I freeze my Carrot Cake Tray Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Carrot Cake Tray Bake, ensure it's completely cooled, then slice it into squares. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to indulge, just thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
What can I do if my cake comes out too dense?
If your carrot cake ends up dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using old leavening agents. Make sure to only mix until just combined and always check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda to ensure they are still effective. If it’s dense, try to incorporate air by gently folding the ingredients next time!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Very! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum to mimic the structure of regular flour. Just ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The result will be a delicious, gluten-free Carrot Cake Tray Bake that everyone can enjoy!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
I recommend this Carrot Cake Tray Bake for many diets, but if you have specific allergies, be aware that it contains eggs and dairy. You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan option, and use dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting for a lactose-free version. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate for your or your guests' dietary needs!
Irresistibly Easy Carrot Cake Tray Bake You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch tray by greasing or lining with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat together eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Fold in grated carrots.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tray and bake for 25–30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat together cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake and garnish as desired.
- Slice into squares for serving.
Leave a Reply