Description
This Gordon Ramsay Carrot Cake is moist, spice-packed, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Toasted pecans add crunch and depth, while applesauce and oil keep the cake tender and flavorful. It’s an easy, foolproof recipe that’s perfect for birthdays, Easter, or any occasion where you want a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients
Cake:
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2 cups (260 g) chopped pecans, divided
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1 1/2 cups (300 g) packed brown sugar
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1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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1 cup (240 ml) vegetable or canola oil
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4 large eggs
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2/3 cup (133 g) smooth unsweetened applesauce
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 1/2 cups (312 g) all-purpose flour
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2 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp salt
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1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 tsp ground ginger
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
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1/4 tsp ground cloves
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2 cups (260 g) finely grated carrots
Cream Cheese Frosting:
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16 oz (452 g) full-fat cream cheese
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1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
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4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
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1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 300°F (149°C). Toast pecans for 7–8 minutes, then cool.
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Increase oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two or three 9-inch pans with parchment.
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In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, oil, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla.
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In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
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Fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
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Stir in grated carrots and 1 cup toasted pecans.
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Divide batter between pans:
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Bake 20–24 min (3 pans) or 30–35 min (2 pans). Cool completely.
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For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt; beat until creamy.
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Assemble cake with frosting between layers, covering top and sides. Decorate with remaining pecans.
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Chill 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Finely grate carrots for even texture.
Room-temperature ingredients ensure smooth batter and frosting.
Don’t overmix once dry and wet ingredients are combined.
Cake tastes even better the next day.
For cupcakes, bake 18–20 minutes at 350°F.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American