Best Moist Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about the sweet scent of warm spices mingling with fresh carrots in the oven. When I discovered this carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting, it instantly became my go-to dessert for gatherings and quiet evenings alike. The subtle crunch of toasted walnuts folded into the silky frosting adds a delightful twist that keeps every bite exciting. Whether you’re craving a homemade treat that feels indulgent but still wholesome or looking to impress friends with a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this recipe hits all the right notes. Let me take you through a simple way to make carrot cake that feels like a hug in dessert form—moist, flavorful, and topped with the kind of frosting that makes you want to savor every last crumb.

Why choose Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting?

Moist, fluffy texture: This carrot cake stays perfectly soft and tender, thanks to fresh grated carrots and just the right baking time. Unique walnut frosting: The creamy cheese frosting dotted with crunchy toasted walnuts creates a delightful contrast. Simple ingredients: You likely have everything at home—no complicated or obscure items needed. Perfect for any occasion: From cozy family dinners to festive gatherings, this cake impresses every time. Balanced sweetness: The natural carrot sweetness pairs wonderfully with mild spices and creamy frosting, avoiding anything too sugary or heavy.

Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake

• Fresh grated carrots – provide natural moisture and subtle sweetness essential for that signature moist texture.
• All-purpose flour – the perfect base to give structure without weighing the cake down.
• Granulated sugar – balances the natural sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar – adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor complementing the spices.
• Vegetable oil – keeps the cake irresistibly moist and soft.
• Eggs – bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s fluffy rise.
• Baking powder & baking soda – lift the batter so the cake stays light and airy.
• Ground cinnamon & nutmeg – classic warming spices that bring cozy depth and flavor.
• Salt – enhances all the other flavors for a well-rounded taste.
• Vanilla extract – adds a sweet, fragrant note that ties the flavors together.

For the Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cream cheese (softened) – the creamy, tangy base that makes this frosting irresistibly smooth.
• Unsalted butter (softened) – adds richness and helps achieve that silky texture.
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting without graininess for a delicate finish.
• Vanilla extract – brightens the frosting with a warm, sweet aroma.
• Toasted walnuts (chopped) – provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that perfectly contrasts the creamy frosting.

This carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting uses simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to create a moist, flavorful dessert that’s as satisfying to make as it is to share.

How to Make Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

For the Carrot Cake:

1. Preheat oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated and brown sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined and fragrant.

3. Blend wet ingredients – In a separate bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in fresh grated carrots until every shred is coated, adding natural moisture and sweetness.

4. Combine batter – Gently fold wet mixture into dry ingredients with a spatula, mixing just until no streaks remain. This prevents overmixing and keeps your cake ultra-tender and fluffy.

5. Bake cake – Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and tops are light golden brown.

For the Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting:

6. Beat cream cheese & butter – In a chilled bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until light, airy, and perfectly smooth.

7. Add sugar & vanilla – Slowly mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, starting on low speed. Increase to medium and beat until creamy, silky, and free of lumps.

8. Fold in walnuts – Gently stir chopped toasted walnuts into the frosting, folding until evenly distributed. The crunch adds depth and balances the creamy tanginess beautifully.

9. Assemble cake – Place one cake layer on a platter, spread frosting evenly, top with second layer, then coat sides and top. Chill 10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.

Optional: Garnish with a few extra toasted walnuts on top.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use fresh grated carrots: For the moist texture this carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting is known for, freshly grate carrots instead of pre-shredded or frozen versions.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients just until combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy, avoiding a dense, tough crumb.
• Toast walnuts for flavor: Lightly toasting walnuts before folding them into the frosting enhances their crunch and brings out rich, nutty notes.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for smooth mixing and a creamy frosting consistency.
• Chill before slicing: Letting the frosted cake chill for 10–15 minutes helps the frosting set, allowing clean and neat slices every time.

How to Store and Freeze Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frosting: Keep leftover walnut cream cheese frosting in the fridge for up to 1 week. Re-whip the frosting before using it again for the best texture.

Serving: For a delicious treat, serve chilled slices of carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting straight from the fridge, or live it up by warming individual portions in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds!

What to Serve with Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance this sweet, spiced cake.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of fruits adds a refreshing balance to the rich frosting, complementing the cake’s sweetness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream with a cool, velvety texture provides a delicious contrast against the warm spices of the cake. Imagine a scoop melting gracefully over your slice!
• Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of chamomile or mint tea brings a soothing element that beautifully complements the warm flavors of the carrot cake.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a dreamy quality to each forkful without being overly heavy.
• Toasted Coconut: Sprinkling toasted coconut on top enhances both flavor and texture, introducing a subtle crunch and extra sweetness to every bite.
• Espresso: A shot of strong coffee or espresso balances the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast—perfect for coffee lovers!
• Lemon Zest Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top of the frosting provides a zesty pop that brightens the rich, creamy flavor of the cake.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate can add an indulgent twist, creating a decadent flavor experience that guests will love.
• Caramel Sauce: The sweet, buttery notes of caramel can create a luxurious layer of flavor, making it feel even more indulgent and special.

Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful recipe your own with these simple twists and substitutions that will give your carrot cake a personal touch!

• Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free alternative that retains the cake’s moistness.
• Fruity Touch: Add crushed pineapple to the batter for extra moisture and a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the carrots beautifully.
• Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor twist that can elevate your cake’s warmth and depth.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to create a lighter version that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing taste.
• Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs and plant-based butter in the frosting for a vegan-friendly option that’s still luscious and satisfying.
• Zesty Addition: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus undertone that brightens each bite.
• Decadent Chocolate: Fold in cocoa powder or chocolate chips into the batter for a moist chocolate-carrot cake hybrid that is sure to delight!
• Layered Delight: Turn this into a layer cake by splitting the batter into three layers or creating mini cupcakes for fun bite-sized treats.

No matter your choice, these variations will keep your carrot cake exciting and tailored to your taste!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance by wrapping the cooled cakes tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating them, which helps maintain their moisture. The walnut cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge; simply rewhip it slightly before frosting to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cake by frosting the layers and chilling them for about 10 minutes before slicing. This way, you’ll impress everyone with a fresh, delicious dessert with minimal effort!

Best Moist Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my carrots are good for grating in this carrot cake?
Look for fresh carrots that are firm, bright orange, and free of dark spots or cracks. Avoid carrots that feel soft or wilted as they won’t provide the moisture and sweetness this cake needs.

What’s the best way to store leftover carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it moist and fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure the container seals well to prevent the cake from absorbing other fridge odors.

Can I freeze the carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting for later?
Absolutely! Wrap your cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then assemble and frost. This keeps the cake moist and the flavors fresh.

I tried making the frosting but it came out grainy—what did I do wrong?
This usually happens if the cream cheese and butter aren’t fully softened. Make sure both are at room temperature before mixing. Beat them well to achieve a smooth base before slowly adding powdered sugar. If needed, sift your powdered sugar to avoid lumps.

Is this carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting safe for pets or people with nut allergies?
Since the frosting contains toasted walnuts, it’s not safe for anyone with nut allergies, and definitely not suitable for pets. For nut-free alternatives, you can skip the walnuts and perhaps add crushed graham crackers for texture, but always be cautious about allergies.

Best Moist Carrot Cake with Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This carrot cake with walnut cream cheese frosting is a comforting dessert with moist texture and delightful crunch from toasted walnuts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Chill Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Carrot Cake

• 2 cups Fresh grated carrots Provides natural moisture and subtle sweetness essential for that signature moist texture.
• 1 cup All-purpose flour The perfect base to give structure without weighing the cake down.
• 1 cup Granulated sugar Balances the natural sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup Brown sugar Adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor complementing the spices.
• 1/2 cup Vegetable oil Keeps the cake irresistibly moist and soft.
• 3 large Eggs Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s fluffy rise.
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder Helps the cake rise.
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda Helps the cake rise.
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Adds classic warming flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg Adds classic warming flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances all the other flavors.
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Adds a sweet, fragrant note.

For the Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces Cream cheese (softened) The creamy, tangy base.
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened) Adds richness and helps achieve silky texture.
• 2 cups Powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting without graininess.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Brightens the frosting.
• 1 cup Toasted walnuts (chopped) Provides a delightful crunch.

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Cake pans
• electric mixer

Method

 

For the Carrot Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated and brown sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined and fragrant.
3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in fresh grated carrots until every shred is coated.
4. Gently fold wet mixture into dry ingredients with a spatula, mixing just until no streaks remain.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

For the Walnut Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a chilled bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until light and airy.
2. Slowly mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, starting on low speed. Increase to medium and beat until creamy and free of lumps.
3. Gently stir chopped toasted walnuts into the frosting until evenly distributed.
4. Place one cake layer on a platter, spread frosting evenly, top with second layer, then coat sides and top.
5. Chill for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use fresh grated carrots and ensure room temperature ingredients for the best texture.