Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for the perfect carrot cake that’s ultra-moist, flavorful, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake is the ultimate treat. This classic dessert combines warm spices, freshly grated carrots, and a hint of vanilla to create a cake that’s soft, tender, and absolutely irresistible. Unlike dry or dense carrot cakes, this sheet cake has the ideal balance of moisture and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

One of the best things about this carrot sheet cake is its simplicity. There’s no need to stack layers or fuss with complicated decorating—just bake it in a sheet pan, spread on the luscious cream cheese frosting, and you’re good to go. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just indulging in a homemade treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

With a perfect blend of brown sugar sweetness, warm cinnamon, and the natural moisture from carrots, this cake has everything you love in a classic carrot cake. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy contrast that makes each bite even more delightful. Let’s dive into the recipe and find out why this carrot sheet cake deserves a place in your baking repertoire!

Table of Contents

Quick Recipe Information

Feature	Details
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35-40 minutes
Total Time	~1 hour (including cooling time)
Serving Size	12-16 slices
Calories per Serving	~350-400 kcal
Protein	~5g per slice
Carbohydrates	~50g per slice
Fat	~15g per slice
Gluten-Free?	No (can be made gluten-free with substitutions)
Vegan?	No (contains eggs and dairy)
Dairy-Free?	No (contains cream cheese and butter)
Best for	Desserts, parties, holidays

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Incredibly Moist & Tender: Thanks to fresh grated carrots and a perfectly balanced batter, this cake stays soft and moist for days.
Easy One-Pan Baking: No need to worry about stacking layers—just bake, frost, and enjoy!
Perfectly Spiced Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar creates a warm, comforting taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for birthdays, Easter, or just a casual dessert, this cake is always a hit.
Rich Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy, smooth frosting pairs beautifully with the spiced carrot cake.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It stays fresh for days and can even be frozen for later!
Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or pineapple for extra flavor variations.

Ingredients to Make Carrot Sheet Cake

A great carrot cake starts with the right ingredients! This recipe uses simple pantry staples, fresh carrots, and warm spices to create a moist and flavorful cake. Below is a breakdown of each ingredient and how it contributes to the final result.

For the Carrot Cake:

All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups) – Provides the structure for the cake. If you need a gluten-free version, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder (1 ½ teaspoons) & Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – These leavening agents help the cake rise and give it a light, fluffy texture.
Ground Cinnamon (2 teaspoons) & Nutmeg (½ teaspoon) – Adds warmth and depth to the cake, enhancing the flavor of the carrots.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Vegetable Oil (1 cup) – Keeps the cake ultra-moist. You can substitute with melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a lighter version.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup) & Brown Sugar (½ cup) – The combination of white and brown sugar provides the perfect level of sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar also adds a subtle caramel flavor.
Eggs (4 large) – Helps bind the ingredients together and gives the cake structure.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
Grated Carrots (3 cups, packed) – The star ingredient! Freshly grated carrots add natural sweetness, moisture, and texture. Avoid pre-shredded carrots as they tend to be dry.
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional, ½ cup) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor, but can be left out if you prefer a nut-free cake.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – The base of the frosting, giving it a tangy and creamy texture.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened) – Helps make the frosting smooth and rich.
Powdered Sugar (2 ½ cups) – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and smooth.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds extra flavor to the frosting.
A Pinch of Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Optional Add-ins:

Crushed Pineapple (½ cup, drained) – Adds extra moisture and a slight tropical sweetness.
Raisins (½ cup) – For those who love a chewy texture in their carrot cake.
Shredded Coconut (¼ cup) – Enhances the flavor with a subtle coconut taste.

These ingredients work together to create a carrot sheet cake that’s soft, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. Now that we have everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making this cake!

Steps to Make Carrot Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This carrot sheet cake is easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps. Follow the detailed instructions below to achieve a soft, moist, and flavorful cake with a rich cream cheese frosting.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan

Before starting, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the batter. Proper preheating ensures even baking and helps the cake rise properly.

Next, prepare a 9×13-inch sheet pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. To make cake removal easier, line the pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. This way, you can lift the cake out smoothly without worrying about it sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures the leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) and spices are evenly distributed, preventing lumps in the batter. This also helps the cake achieve a consistent texture and balanced flavor.

Once the dry ingredients are well combined, set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, add the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and well incorporated. The eggs help create structure, while the oil keeps the cake incredibly moist. Brown sugar adds depth to the sweetness, complementing the warm spices in the cake.

Make sure the wet ingredients are fully combined before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Incorporate the Carrots and Dry Ingredients

Now, slowly add the dry ingredients into the bowl of wet ingredients. Stir gently using a spatula or wooden spoon, mixing just until combined. Overmixing at this stage can make the cake dense and tough, so it’s best to fold the ingredients together carefully.

Once the batter is nearly mixed, fold in 3 cups of grated carrots. The carrots provide natural sweetness and moisture, creating that signature soft and tender texture. If you’re adding chopped nuts, raisins, or shredded coconut, mix them in at this stage as well. The batter will be thick, but that’s completely normal!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared 9×13-inch sheet pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a smooth surface for frosting later.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese and butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until smooth and creamy.

Next, gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, mix in a little more powdered sugar. The result should be a creamy, spreadable frosting with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Step 7: Frost the Cake and Serve

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. You can create smooth swirls or decorative patterns for a professional touch.

For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or shredded coconut on top. Then, slice the cake into squares and serve. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of moist cake, warm spices, and creamy frosting!

Serving Suggestions

Carrot sheet cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Whether you’re enjoying it at home with family or serving it at a special gathering, here are some great ways to make the experience even better.

Serve Chilled for a Refreshing Taste

Chilling the carrot cake before serving enhances its flavor and texture. Once frosted, place the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to firm up slightly. This makes the cream cheese frosting even more luscious and gives the cake a refreshing taste. Serving it cold also helps intensify the sweetness and spices, creating a well-balanced bite in every forkful.

Pair with a Hot Beverage

Carrot cake pairs beautifully with a warm drink, making it an excellent treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. A strong cup of coffee or espresso provides a bold contrast to the cake’s sweetness, while a chai tea or spiced latte complements the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. If you prefer a richer experience, a cup of hot chocolate adds a comforting and indulgent element to the cake, enhancing its creamy and spiced notes.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

For an extra indulgent dessert, serve a slice of carrot cake with a scoop of ice cream. Vanilla bean, cinnamon, or caramel ice cream pairs exceptionally well with the warm spices in the cake. The contrast between the soft, moist cake and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful combination that makes each bite even more enjoyable. This is a perfect way to serve carrot cake on a warm day or when you want to elevate the dessert experience.

Garnish for Extra Elegance

A beautifully garnished carrot cake not only looks stunning but also adds layers of texture and flavor. Sprinkling toasted coconut flakes over the frosting provides a subtle crunch, while a light dusting of cinnamon enhances the warm, spiced aroma of the cake. Drizzling caramel sauce over the top gives a richer taste and a visually appealing finish. For a sophisticated presentation, garnish the cake with edible flowers or finely chopped nuts, creating a dessert that looks as elegant as it tastes.

Serve as a Party Dessert

Carrot sheet cake is an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations because of its ease of serving. Cutting the cake into small squares or bite-sized bars allows guests to grab a piece without the need for plates and utensils. This makes it a convenient and mess-free dessert option for any occasion. For added charm, you can place each piece in a decorative cupcake liner, making it easy to serve and enjoy.

Create a Layered Dessert

Transforming carrot cake into a layered dessert is a creative way to serve it differently. Crumble the cake and layer it in a glass or jar with spoonfuls of cream cheese frosting to create a carrot cake parfait. Adding layers of whipped cream, crushed nuts, or caramel sauce in between enhances the flavors and textures, making for a visually appealing and delicious individual dessert. This is a fun and elegant way to serve carrot cake at a dinner party or a special occasion.

Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake in Advance?

Yes, this carrot sheet cake can be made in advance, making it a convenient dessert option for busy schedules or special occasions. If you plan to bake the cake ahead of time, you can prepare the cake base up to two days in advance and store it at room temperature in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moisture while allowing the flavors to deepen over time.

For even longer storage, the unfrosted cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to five days.

If you prefer to freeze the cake, bake it as directed and let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap the entire cake or individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before frosting. The cream cheese frosting can also be prepared in advance and stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Before spreading it on the cake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften. Preparing the cake in advance saves time while ensuring that it remains just as moist and delicious when served.

Tips and Tricks

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your carrot sheet cake, using fresh and finely grated carrots is essential. Large chunks of carrots may not blend well into the batter and can create an uneven texture.

A fine grater ensures that the carrots distribute evenly, contributing to a soft and moist cake.

Additionally, measuring your flour correctly prevents the cake from becoming too dense—spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Stir the ingredients just until they are combined to prevent gluten from developing, which could make the cake tough.

When baking, keep an eye on the cake toward the end of the cooking time and perform the toothpick test to ensure it’s baked to perfection. If the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

Overbaking can dry out the cake, so remove it from the oven as soon as it’s ready. Lastly, for an extra touch of flavor, try lightly toasting any nuts before adding them to the batter or as a garnish.

Toasting enhances their nuttiness and adds a slight crunch, elevating the cake’s overall taste.

Variations of Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake

Carrot sheet cake is highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with flavors and ingredients based on your preferences.

If you love a nuttier texture, you can mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch. Raisins or shredded coconut can also be incorporated to introduce a subtle sweetness and extra moisture.

For a more tropical twist, adding crushed pineapple to the batter creates a fruitier and slightly tangy flavor while maintaining the cake’s softness.

If you want a healthier version, you can replace some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce the fat content without sacrificing moisture.

Additionally, substituting part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour can add fiber and a heartier taste. For a gluten-free variation, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that mimics the properties of traditional flour.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap out the cream cheese and butter in the frosting for dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut oil. These variations allow you to adapt the recipe to different dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious carrot cake.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures that your carrot sheet cake stays fresh and maintains its moist texture for several days. If you plan to eat the cake within two days, storing it in an airtight container at room temperature is sufficient.

However, since this cake contains cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is recommended for longer storage. Place the cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and bring out the cake’s flavors.

If you want to store the cake for an extended period, freezing is a great option. To freeze, wrap the frosted or unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. If the frosting appears slightly firm after thawing, give it a gentle stir or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Proper storage methods ensure that your cake stays fresh and delicious, whether you enjoy it right away or save it for later.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded carrots instead of freshly grated ones?

It’s best to use freshly grated carrots, as pre-shredded store-bought carrots tend to be drier and do not blend as well into the batter. Freshly grated carrots release natural moisture, contributing to the cake’s soft texture.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes, the nuts are entirely optional. You can omit them if you prefer a nut-free cake, or replace them with an alternative add-in such as raisins, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips.

How do I make the frosting thicker or thinner?

If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk (one tablespoon at a time) and mix until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually until it thickens.

Can I bake this recipe as cupcakes instead of a sheet cake?

Yes! You can turn this carrot sheet cake into cupcakes by dividing the batter evenly into cupcake liners. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I use a different type of oil in the recipe?

Yes, you can use any neutral-flavored oil, such as canola, sunflower, or melted coconut oil. Each oil may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but the cake will still turn out moist and delicious.

Conclusion

Super Moist Carrot Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a timeless dessert that is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of warm spices, freshly grated carrots, and a rich, tangy frosting creates a truly irresistible treat. ]

Whether you serve it chilled, pair it with a warm drink, or customize it with different mix-ins, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With proper storage and meal prep tips, you can enjoy this delicious cake fresh or make it in advance for convenience. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply to satisfy a craving, this carrot sheet cake is a recipe worth making again and again.