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Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

4.9 from 27 reviews

This easy carrot cake recipe is a quick and delightful treat made in a microwave-safe mug. Featuring freshly grated carrots and a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for a simple dessert or snack with minimal ingredients and preparation time.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

  • 3 tbsp milk
  • 1.5 tbsp oil
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/3 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated carrots

For the Frosting

  • 1 tbsp cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine wet ingredients: In a microwave-safe mug (10-12 oz), add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly to combine these liquids, ensuring an even base for the batter.
  2. Add dry ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt into the mug. Stir gently until all dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet mixture, forming a smooth batter.
  3. Incorporate carrots: Fold in the freshly grated carrots into the batter, mixing until the carrots are evenly distributed throughout.
  4. Microwave the batter: Cook the mug cake in the microwave on high for 60 to 90 seconds. Check for doneness by ensuring the batter is no longer wet and springs back lightly when poked. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
  5. Cool the cake: Let the cake cool inside the mug for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows it to set and prevents the frosting from melting when applied.
  6. Make the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together room temperature cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, creating a rich frosting.
  7. Frost and serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Serve immediately and enjoy this quick and delicious carrot cake treat.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated carrots for best texture and flavor.
  • Microwave cook times can vary; start checking at 60 seconds to prevent overcooking.
  • Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
  • You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
  • For a healthier version, reduce sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake, mug cake, quick dessert, microwave cake, easy carrot cake, cream cheese frosting