Carrot Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

This rich and moist carrot cake is filled with warm spices, grated carrots, and optional crunchy walnuts, then layered with a luscious brown butter cream cheese frosting for the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its soft texture, depth of flavor, and indulgent frosting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, Warm Flavors – Cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown butter create an irresistible richness.
• Super Moist Texture – Freshly grated carrots and oil ensure a soft, tender crumb.
• Decadent Frosting – Brown butter adds a nutty, caramel-like depth to classic cream cheese frosting.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or afternoon tea.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays moist for days and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Carrot Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder & baking soda
• Cinnamon & nutmeg
• Salt
• Vegetable oil
• Granulated sugar & brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Grated carrots
• Chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Unsalted butter
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon

For Garnish:

• Grated carrot

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat together oil, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in grated carrots and walnuts (if using).

2. Bake the Cake:

6. Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before frosting.

3. Make the Brown Butter Frosting:

9. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stirring, until golden brown and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
10. In a large bowl, beat cooled brown butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.

4. Assemble the Cake:

11. Place one cake layer on a serving stand. Spread or pipe frosting evenly.
12. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
13. Garnish with grated carrot for a decorative finish.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

14. Serve chilled or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Variations

• Nut-Free Version – Omit walnuts for a smooth, classic carrot cake.
• Extra Moist Cake – Replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
• Layered Elegance – Bake in three 6-inch layers for a taller cake.
• Maple Frosting Twist – Substitute vanilla extract with maple syrup for extra depth.
• Pineapple Addition – Add ½ cup crushed pineapple for tropical sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual cake layers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
• Serving from the Fridge: Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Why is brown butter used in frosting?

Brown butter has nutty, caramelized notes that enhance the depth and richness of the cream cheese frosting.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake a day ahead, wrap it in plastic, and frost before serving.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

No, fresh hand-grated carrots are best, as pre-shredded ones are too dry.

What makes this carrot cake so moist?

The combination of oil, grated carrots, and brown sugar ensures a soft and moist crumb.

Can I bake this in a single pan?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time to 40–45 minutes.

Can I make cupcakes instead?

Yes! Bake in a muffin tin at 350°F for 18–22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

What’s the best way to decorate carrot cake?

Try:

• Grated carrot
• Toasted walnuts or pecans
• A dusting of cinnamon

Conclusion

This Carrot Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is a decadent, moist, and perfectly spiced dessert that is rich in flavor and texture. The nutty, creamy frosting takes it to the next level, making it a must-try for any cake lover. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply treating yourself—this is a carrot cake you’ll want to make again and again!