📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds to prevent sticking. This ensures the cake layers come out cleanly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg). Make sure there aren’t any lumps, which can affect the texture of the cake.
3. In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be light and fluffy.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
5. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Make sure you don’t skip the carrots or nuts!
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pans. Spread the batter out evenly, which ensures that the layers will be uniform.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t open the oven door too often during baking, as this can cause the cake to sink.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cakes from sticking and breaking.
9. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
10. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Then, beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
11. Once the cakes are completely cool, level them with a serrated knife if necessary. This ensures that the cake will sit flat and look professional.
12. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
13. Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Get creative and make it your own!
14. Decorate the cake with chopped nuts, carrot shavings, or any other decorations you like. Consider using a piping bag to create decorative swirls or rosettes.
15. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Chilling the cake makes it easier to slice and serve.