Name: JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil; 2 cups sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp lemon extract; 4 eggs; 3-4 cups fresh carrots, shredded; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp cinnamon; 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts and pecans preferred); 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 – 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1 – 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 dash salt (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

If you are craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in cake form, look no further than JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This beloved family classic combines moist, spice-kissed carrot cake loaded with shredded fresh carrots and crunchy nuts, all wrapped in a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. Each bite bursts with an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that instantly brings joy to the table, whether it’s a casual afternoon treat or the star of your next celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a three-layer cake on a white marble surface with a round white marble cake stand that has a natural wooden base. Each cake layer is brown with a rough texture, and creamy white frosting layers are spread evenly between the cake layers, slightly thick and smooth. The cake layers and frosting together create a tall, neat stack with no decorations on top or around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role: the oil and eggs create a tender base, the carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, spices warm the batter with depth, and nuts give a delightful crunch. For the frosting, rich cream cheese and butter team up to deliver that creamy, dreamy finish every carrot cake deserves.

Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without weighing it down.
Sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping develop a golden crust.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, floral notes.
Lemon extract: Adds a subtle, refreshing zing to brighten the cake.
Eggs: Bind everything together and provide a lovely structure.
Fresh shredded carrots: The star ingredient that contributes moisture, sweetness, and vibrant color.
All-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s sturdy yet soft foundation.
Baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements carrots perfectly.
Chopped nuts (walnuts and pecans): Provide texture and a rich, toasty flavor.
Butter or margarine (softened): Gives the frosting its creamy richness.
Cream cheese (softened): Offers that signature tangy and smooth frosting texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
Vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds depth and balances the tanginess.
Salt (optional, frosting): Enhances the overall flavor and cuts through sweetness.

How to Make JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Generously grease your cake pans—two round pans or a 9×13 inch pan both work beautifully—and if using the 9×13, line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup and cake removal. This prep ensures your cake bakes evenly and slips out effortlessly when done.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Into your mixer bowl, pour 1 1/2 cups of vegetable oil, 2 cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract. Beat these until the sugar dissolves and the mixture looks glossy and smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a silky batter that will form the perfect base for your cake.

Step 3: Fold in the Shredded Carrots

Gently fold in 3 to 4 cups of freshly shredded carrots. These bring natural sweetness, beautiful moisture, and vibrant color to every bite, making this cake truly special. Take your time folding to keep the batter light and airy.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients and Nuts

Incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon into the batter, folding gently so everything combines without overmixing. Finally, stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts and pecans for a crunchy, nutty twist that complements the softness of the cake wonderfully.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Toothpick Clean

Pour your batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma drifting from your oven will surely have you counting down the minutes! Let the cake cool completely before moving to frosting.

Step 6: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

Combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and a dash of salt (optional) in your mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy with no lumps of sugar. This frosting is the luscious crown your carrot cake has been waiting for.

Step 7: Assemble and Chill for Structure

Layer the cake with generous amounts of frosting in between. For best results, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before spreading the frosting on the top and sides. This chilling step helps the frosting firm up and supports the cake layers perfectly. Add crushed nuts on top for a stunning finish and delightful texture contrast.

How to Serve JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A close-up of a slice of carrot cake with three thick layers on a white plate with small dark speckles. Each cake layer is dark brown with visible bits of nuts and carrot pieces inside. Between the layers and on top is a thick, smooth layer of white cream cheese frosting. On the top edge of the slice, there are chopped walnuts adding texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, next to a silver fork and part of a red cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe by garnishing it with chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. For a pretty touch, some finely grated carrot curls or edible flowers can make each slice look like a work of art, inviting everyone to indulge.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to amplify its creaminess. A cup of hot coffee or a spiced chai tea serves as an ideal companion, enriching the spices and balancing the dessert’s sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in mini cupcake form for parties or portion it as elegant layered parfaits with frosting and crushed nuts in clear glasses. This presentation adds a fun element and makes it perfect for sharing or gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Keeping the frosting chilled ensures it remains firm and luscious, preserving that fresh-from-the-bakery taste every time you reach for a slice.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Carrot cake is often best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as the cream cheese frosting may melt excessively. A quick warming enhances the cake’s comforting, spiced notes beautifully.

FAQs

Can I make JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, and leave out the nuts if you want a nut-free option. This keeps the cake moist and delicious while accommodating dairy-free diets.

What type of carrots work best for this recipe?

Freshly shredded carrots are ideal as they offer the best moisture and sweetness. You can shred them by hand or use a food processor for quicker prep. Avoid pre-packaged shredded carrots as they tend to be drier.

Can I use a 9×13 pan instead of two cake pans?

Yes, using a greased 9×13 pan is a wonderful option, especially when short on time. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. This gives you one big, delicious sheet cake to slice and serve.

How do I prevent my frosting from becoming too runny?

Make sure both the butter and cream cheese are softened but not melted. Beat the frosting ingredients until smooth, but avoid overmixing once you add powdered sugar. Refrigerating the cake before frosting also helps the frosting set up nicely.

Is this cake suitable for celebrations?

Definitely! JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is elegant and crowd-pleasing, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Its moist texture and rich frosting make it a memorable sweet treat that guests will rave about.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for that perfect homemade carrot cake recipe to share with friends and family, JoJo’s Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Its comforting spices, indulgent frosting, and tender crumb come together in a timeless dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s a family treasure worth passing down through generations.