The Best Moist Carrot Cake Recipe with Tangy Cream Cheese Glaze

By Jason Griffith, Professional Food Writer for ChefManiac.com

Introduction

There are some desserts that just feel like a warm hug, and for me, a classic carrot cake is at the very top of that list. It’s comforting, spiced to perfection, and ridiculously moist thanks to the double hit of vegetable oil and crushed pineapple. Forget the dry, bland cakes you’ve had before—this recipe is a revelation. It features tender crumbs loaded with grated carrots, warm spices, and crunchy nuts, all topped with a generous drizzle of the essential tangy cream cheese glaze. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a weekend treat, or just because you have a bag of carrots in the fridge, this loaf-style cake is easy, foolproof, and guaranteed to become your new go-to.

Why I Love This Recipe

I’ve been making this carrot cake for years, and it never fails to impress. Here’s why I’m obsessed:

• The Texture is Unbeatable: The combination of vegetable oil and well-drained crushed pineapple ensures an incredibly moist, tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
• Perfect Spice Blend: It uses a balance of cinnamon and nutmeg—not too much, not too little—for that signature warm, comforting flavor.
• Simple & Straightforward: We’re keeping it simple here, baking it in a loaf pan instead of multiple layers. It cuts out the complicated assembly, making this an ideal recipe for beginner bakers.
• The Glaze is the Star: Instead of heavy frosting, we use a lighter, drizzly cream cheese glaze that delivers all the creamy, tangy flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients

For the Cake

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Granulated Sugar	1 cup
Packed Brown Sugar	1 cup	Helps keep the cake moist.
Vegetable Oil	1 cup	Any neutral oil works (canola, grapeseed, etc.).
Large Eggs	4	Should be at room temperature.
All-Purpose Flour	2 cups
Baking Powder	1 teaspoon
Baking Soda	1 teaspoon
Ground Cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Ground Nutmeg	1/2 teaspoon	Essential for the classic flavor.
Salt	1/4 teaspoon	Balances the sweetness.
Grated Carrots	2 cups	About 3-4 medium carrots. Finely grate them!
Crushed Pineapple	1 cup	Drained very well—excess liquid will ruin the texture.
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans	1/2 cup	Optional, but highly recommended for crunch.

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For the Cream Cheese Glaze

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Cream Cheese	8 oz	Softened to room temperature.
Powdered Sugar	4 cups	Also known as confectioners’ sugar.
Vanilla Extract	1 teaspoon
Milk	2-3 tablespoons	Use as needed for desired consistency.

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Swaps and Notes

• Gluten-Free Option: You can often swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Nut-Free: Simply omit the walnuts or pecans entirely.
• Spice Boost: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a deeper spice profile.
• The Pineapple Factor: Draining the pineapple is critical. Squeeze it out in a paper towel or fine-mesh sieve to remove as much liquid as possible.
• Glaze Consistency: For a thicker, spreadable frosting, use only 1 tablespoon of milk or skip it entirely. For a thin drizzle (my preference), add the milk slowly until you reach that perfect pourable consistency.

List of Steps for the Recipe

Preparation

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175∘C). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan (about 9×5 inches).
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. Add Eggs: Add the large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the batter is emulsified and pale yellow.
4. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Baking

1. Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the grated carrots, well-drained crushed pineapple, and the chopped walnuts or pecans (if using).
2. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
3. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Glazing

1. Whip Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Make Glaze: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and then enough milk (starting with 2 tablespoons) until the glaze is smooth and the desired drizzly consistency is reached.
3. Drizzle: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the cooled cake before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skimp on the Carrots: Use the freshest, finest grated carrots you can. Hand grating is best, but a food processor works too. Just don’t use pre-shredded bag carrots, as they are often too thick and dry.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This is essential for creating a smooth batter and a lump-free glaze.
• Cool Completely: Never glaze a warm cake. If you do, the glaze will melt right off. Wait until the cake is completely cool—about 1-2 hours—before applying the glaze.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This rich, spiced cake pairs beautifully with simple, clean flavors that let the cake shine.

• Drinks: A cup of strong, black coffee or a classic cup of black tea cuts through the richness nicely. For a refreshing non-alcoholic pairing, try making a batch of fresh Blueberry Lemonade (though not an internal link, this is a great pairing suggestion).
• Fruit: Serve slices with fresh berries or a side of citrus zest to add a bright contrast.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream is a decadent match for a slightly warmed slice of carrot cake.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (Estimate)

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of loaf)

Nutrient	Amount (Approximate)
Calories	450
Total Fat	24g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	75mg
Sodium	180mg
Total Carbohydrate	54g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	40g
Protein	5g

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Note: Nutritional information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and may vary depending on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Storage and Leftover Tips

• Counter: Store the cake without the glaze in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator (Recommended): Once glazed, the cake must be refrigerated due to the cream cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unglazed cake. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before glazing and serving.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of moist cakes, warm spices, and decadent sweets, you absolutely have to try these other fan-favorite recipes:

• For another fall favorite, check out my recipe for These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat To Bake On Repeat.
• If you’re looking for an indulgent, no-bake treat, don’t miss this This Pumpkin Delight Dessert Is My Favorite No-Bake Fall Treat.
• Have some ripe bananas? You’ll love This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way To Use Up Overripe Bananas.
• For something truly decadent, try These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession.
• Or, if you prefer a classic, fudgy bake, I highly recommend The Best Peanut Butter Brownies I’ve Ever Made (And I’ve Made a Lot).

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen are just as good as the first bite. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a family gathering and an even better treat to keep all to yourself. Bake it today, follow the tips, and prepare to be amazed at how simple and delicious homemade carrot cake can be.

Have you tried adding coconut or raisins to your carrot cake? I’d love to hear your favorite variations in the comments below!