Description
A moist, spiced carrot cake layered with rich mascarpone cream and crunchy toasted pecans. This cake is perfect for any occasion, blending rustic comfort with elegant flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups finely grated fresh carrots
- 1 cup chopped and toasted pecans
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, then stir in the grated carrots and toasted pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and orange zest until light and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cakes with the mascarpone cream and garnish with extra pecans if desired.
- Serve and enjoy at room temperature.
Notes
- Use freshly grated carrots for maximum moisture and flavor.
- Chill the frosting for 10 minutes before spreading if your kitchen is warm.
- Toast the pecans to enhance their nutty aroma and crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: carrot cake, mascarpone frosting, pecan dessert, moist carrot cake, spring cake, easy carrot cake