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Salted Caramel Carrot Dream Cake Recipe


  • Author: Rafael
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This Salted Caramel Carrot Dream Cake blends the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with moist grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and optional nuts and raisins. It’s topped with a rich, homemade salted caramel sauce that adds a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Perfect for any special occasion or a comforting dessert treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Salted Caramel Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt thoroughly. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Create Wet Mixture: In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to incorporate the flavors.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, walnuts, and raisins if you choose to use them.
  5. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  6. Prepare Salted Caramel Sauce: While the cakes are cooling, make the salted caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it reaches a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the unsalted butter until melted. Slowly add the heavy cream while whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth. Stir in the sea salt and let the caramel cool slightly.
  7. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Drizzle a generous amount of salted caramel sauce over it. Top with the second cake layer and drizzle more caramel sauce on top for a decadent finish.

Notes

  • Ensure cakes are completely cooled before adding caramel to prevent melting.
  • Walnuts and raisins are optional but add delightful texture and flavor.
  • Use fresh grated carrots for best moisture and taste.
  • Handle caramel with care as it is very hot during preparation.
  • The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Salted caramel carrot cake, carrot cake with caramel sauce, unique carrot cake recipe, moist carrot cake, caramel topping dessert