Description
There’s nothing more comforting than the warm blend of spices, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans in this indulgent Caramel Pecan Carrot Cake. Perfect for celebrations or cozy afternoons, every slice delivers pure delight.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
- For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For Garnish:
- ½ cup toasted pecans (whole or chopped)
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In another large bowl, beat sugars, eggs, and oil until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients, then fold in grated carrots and toasted pecans.
- Bake the Cake: Divide batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat until melted and amber in color. Stir in butter until fully incorporated. Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel sauce and sprinkle toasted pecans on top. Add the second cake layer and repeat. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top and garnish with whole pecans.
- Serve: Slice and serve with a warm beverage for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
1️⃣ Use Fresh Carrots: Always use freshly grated carrots for maximum moisture and flavor. Pre-packaged shredded carrots are often too dry and coarse for the best results.
2️⃣ Perfect Caramel Sauce: When making the caramel, stir continuously and be cautious—it can burn quickly. Add the cream slowly to avoid splattering.
3️⃣ Layering Tip: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling. Warm cake can cause the caramel to slide off, ruining the presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 MIN
- Cook Time: 30 MIN